The Saatva is a supportive coil-on-coil innerspring available in three firmness levels and two profiles.
The Nectar Mattress is constructed with three foam layers for a contouring, pressure-relieving feel.
Both models are available at affordable price-points.
Saatva vs Nectar Mattress Overview
Saatva vs Nectar Mattress Overview
Saatva is an online-only “bed-in-a-box” mattress brand that has been in business since 2011. The company’s flagship mattress, known simply as the Saatva, is a luxury innerspring constructed a Euro-top cover cushioned with fiber and foam padding, along with comfort layers of polyfoam and memory foam sewn into a Euro-top layer. The bed’s transitional layer is composed of pocketed minicoils, and the support core consists of recycled-steel bonnell coils.
The coil-on-coil design creates a very responsive and supportive surface, though the comfort layers offer more conforming than those found in most competing innersprings. Saatva offers three firmness options for the mattress – medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7.5) – as well as 11.5-inch and 14.5-inch profiles.
Nectar Sleep, also known as Nectar, is another online bed-in-a-box company that first launched in 2017. The company’s flagship model is the Nectar Mattress, which features a comfort layer of gel-infused memory foam over a transitional polyfoam layer and a high-density polyfoam base. The Nectar Mattress is ideal for sleepers who prefer the close contouring and pressure relief of a traditional memory foam mattress. This model measures 12 inches thick, and offers a medium firm (6) feel.
In this Saatva vs. Nectar guide, we’ll compare each mattress in terms of construction, cost, and performance across different categories. We’ll also discuss pros and cons of each bed and take a look at shipping, return, and warranty policies for both brands. If you’d like to learn more about these mattresses, check out our Saatva Mattress Review and Nectar Mattress Review pages.
Specifies how long the product maintains structure, providing comfort and support before it begins to deteriorate. For reference, the average mattress lifespan is 6-8 years.
Most innerspring mattresses last between six and seven years, and Saatva mattresses seem to be on par with this lifespan.
Durability
x
Specifies how long the product maintains structure, providing comfort and support before it begins to deteriorate. For reference, the average mattress lifespan is 6-8 years.
Most innerspring mattresses last between six and seven years, and Saatva mattresses seem to be on par with this lifespan.
Motion Isolation
x
A measure of how effectively a mattress absorbs motion across its surface, preventing partner disturbance.
Like other innersprings, the Saatva mattress does not absorb or minimize motion to a significant extent. This may be problematic for certain sleepers, such as couples who share a bed, since minimal motion isolation can lead to sleep disruptions.
Motion Isolation
x
A measure of how effectively a mattress absorbs motion across its surface, preventing partner disturbance.
Like other innersprings, the Saatva mattress does not absorb or minimize motion to a significant extent. This may be problematic for certain sleepers, such as couples who share a bed, since minimal motion isolation can lead to sleep disruptions.
Off-gassing
x
Most new products emit chemical smells after being removed from packaging. Off-gassing odors are considered non-toxic, but can be quite unpleasant nonetheless.
Since the Saatva mattress is not compressed for shipping, owners should not notice any off-gassing when they recieve their mattress.
Off-gassing
x
Most new products emit chemical smells after being removed from packaging. Off-gassing odors are considered non-toxic, but can be quite unpleasant nonetheless.
Since the Saatva mattress is not compressed for shipping, owners should not notice any off-gassing when they recieve their mattress.
Pressure Relief
x
This refers to the degree to which a mattress molds to or cradles the contours of the body. This helps alleviate pressure point pain, especially on the hips and shoulders.
Saatva features coil-on-coil construction and memory foam in the comfort layer. This allows the mattress to conform more closely and relieve pressure to a greater extent than many competing innersprings — but all-foam and latex mattresses are considered the best option for sleepers that prefer close conforming and targeted pressure relief.
Pressure Relief
x
This refers to the degree to which a mattress molds to or cradles the contours of the body. This helps alleviate pressure point pain, especially on the hips and shoulders.
Saatva features coil-on-coil construction and memory foam in the comfort layer. This allows the mattress to conform more closely and relieve pressure to a greater extent than many competing innersprings — but all-foam and latex mattresses are considered the best option for sleepers that prefer close conforming and targeted pressure relief.
Temperature Neutrality
x
The temperature of a mattress throughout the night is affected by how much body heat is retained. Several factors affect temperature neutrality, including material composition, layer thickness, and dissipation of heat through airflow.
Mattresses that contain foam and memory foam tend to sleep the hottest. Saatva has a more traditional innerspring construction so our testing along with data analysis show that it's one of the cooler mattress options on the market today compared to all-foam competitors.
Temperature Neutrality
x
The temperature of a mattress throughout the night is affected by how much body heat is retained. Several factors affect temperature neutrality, including material composition, layer thickness, and dissipation of heat through airflow.
Mattresses that contain foam and memory foam tend to sleep the hottest. Saatva has a more traditional innerspring construction so our testing along with data analysis show that it's one of the cooler mattress options on the market today compared to all-foam competitors.
Edge Support
x
The degree to which the perimeter of the mattress supports body weight. In some cases, mattresses may sink when weight is applied. This sinkage, often called “roll-off”, affects how closely you might sleep to the edge of the bed.
Innerspring mattresses tend to have optimal edge support and the Saatva is no exception. Customers report a consistent sleep surface (no-roll off when sleeping towards the edge) as well as above-average push back when sitting on the edge of the mattress.
Edge Support
x
The degree to which the perimeter of the mattress supports body weight. In some cases, mattresses may sink when weight is applied. This sinkage, often called “roll-off”, affects how closely you might sleep to the edge of the bed.
Innerspring mattresses tend to have optimal edge support and the Saatva is no exception. Customers report a consistent sleep surface (no-roll off when sleeping towards the edge) as well as above-average push back when sitting on the edge of the mattress.
Noise
x
Certain mattresses – particularly those with coils – can be quite noisy when bearing weight. Others are nearly silent. Material composition is often the limiting factor for noise potential.
Roughly 7% of Saatva owners cite noise as a complaint. This is on par with noise complaints from all innerspring owners.
Noise
x
Certain mattresses – particularly those with coils – can be quite noisy when bearing weight. Others are nearly silent. Material composition is often the limiting factor for noise potential.
Roughly 7% of Saatva owners cite noise as a complaint. This is on par with noise complaints from all innerspring owners.
Sex
x
Mattresses that are bouncier and more responsive tend to be better for sex, as they’re easier to change positions on. In contrast, unresponsive mattresses can cause couples to have trouble switching positions.
The Saatva mattress is highly responsive and fairly bouncy, making it excellent for sex.
Sex
x
Mattresses that are bouncier and more responsive tend to be better for sex, as they’re easier to change positions on. In contrast, unresponsive mattresses can cause couples to have trouble switching positions.
The Saatva mattress is highly responsive and fairly bouncy, making it excellent for sex.
Durability
x
Specifies how long the product maintains structure, providing comfort and support before it begins to deteriorate. For reference, the average mattress lifespan is 6-8 years.
Our testing showed the dense foam layers of the Nectar offer average to above-average durability, with an expected lifespan of six to seven years.
Durability
x
Specifies how long the product maintains structure, providing comfort and support before it begins to deteriorate. For reference, the average mattress lifespan is 6-8 years.
Our testing showed the dense foam layers of the Nectar offer average to above-average durability, with an expected lifespan of six to seven years.
Motion Isolation
x
A measure of how effectively a mattress absorbs motion across its surface, preventing partner disturbance.
The Nectar mattress absorbs and minimizes motion to a significant extent, and should curb nighttime sleep disruptions for most. Our tests show minimal movement across the surface of the bed.
Motion Isolation
x
A measure of how effectively a mattress absorbs motion across its surface, preventing partner disturbance.
The Nectar mattress absorbs and minimizes motion to a significant extent, and should curb nighttime sleep disruptions for most. Our tests show minimal movement across the surface of the bed.
Off-gassing
x
Most new products emit chemical smells after being removed from packaging. Off-gassing odors are considered non-toxic, but can be quite unpleasant nonetheless.
Off-gassing odors have been reported for newer Nectar mattresses, but these smells tend to dissipate within a few days.
Off-gassing
x
Most new products emit chemical smells after being removed from packaging. Off-gassing odors are considered non-toxic, but can be quite unpleasant nonetheless.
Off-gassing odors have been reported for newer Nectar mattresses, but these smells tend to dissipate within a few days.
Pressure Relief
x
This refers to the degree to which a mattress molds to or cradles the contours of the body. This helps alleviate pressure point pain, especially on the hips and shoulders.
Dual layers of memory foam offer close conforming and pressure and pain relief in the neck, shoulders, and other sensitive areas.
Pressure Relief
x
This refers to the degree to which a mattress molds to or cradles the contours of the body. This helps alleviate pressure point pain, especially on the hips and shoulders.
Dual layers of memory foam offer close conforming and pressure and pain relief in the neck, shoulders, and other sensitive areas.
Temperature Neutrality
x
The temperature of a mattress throughout the night is affected by how much body heat is retained. Several factors affect temperature neutrality, including material composition, layer thickness, and dissipation of heat through airflow.
The Nectar mattress sleeps somewhat warm, but the lyocell cover and gel memory foam offer more breathability than many competing memory foam models
Temperature Neutrality
x
The temperature of a mattress throughout the night is affected by how much body heat is retained. Several factors affect temperature neutrality, including material composition, layer thickness, and dissipation of heat through airflow.
The Nectar mattress sleeps somewhat warm, but the lyocell cover and gel memory foam offer more breathability than many competing memory foam models
Edge Support
x
The degree to which the perimeter of the mattress supports body weight. In some cases, mattresses may sink when weight is applied. This sinkage, often called “roll-off”, affects how closely you might sleep to the edge of the bed.
The Nectar mattress offers better edge support than most all-foam mattresses at this price range due to its dense foam layers, though some owners have reported sinkage after less than one year of use.
Edge Support
x
The degree to which the perimeter of the mattress supports body weight. In some cases, mattresses may sink when weight is applied. This sinkage, often called “roll-off”, affects how closely you might sleep to the edge of the bed.
The Nectar mattress offers better edge support than most all-foam mattresses at this price range due to its dense foam layers, though some owners have reported sinkage after less than one year of use.
Noise
x
Certain mattresses – particularly those with coils – can be quite noisy when bearing weight. Others are nearly silent. Material composition is often the limiting factor for noise potential.
The Nectar mattress is virtually silent when bearing weight.
Noise
x
Certain mattresses – particularly those with coils – can be quite noisy when bearing weight. Others are nearly silent. Material composition is often the limiting factor for noise potential.
The Nectar mattress is virtually silent when bearing weight.
Sex
x
Mattresses that are bouncier and more responsive tend to be better for sex, as they’re easier to change positions on. In contrast, unresponsive mattresses can cause couples to have trouble switching positions.
The Nectar mattress has some bounce, but — like many memory foam models — it may not be responsive enough for most couples.
Sex
x
Mattresses that are bouncier and more responsive tend to be better for sex, as they’re easier to change positions on. In contrast, unresponsive mattresses can cause couples to have trouble switching positions.
The Nectar mattress has some bounce, but — like many memory foam models — it may not be responsive enough for most couples.
Saatva Highlights...
The Saatva offers a traditional innerspring feel ideal for sleepers who prefer a responsive, bouncy mattress.
A strong support system makes the mattress a good choice for back and stomach sleepers.
The coil layers promote steady airflow to help the mattress maintain a cool core temperature.
Saatva offers free White Glove delivery for all orders, which includes in-home setup and old mattress removal.
Nectar Highlights...
Built with three layers of memory foam, the Nectar Mattress provides deep contouring and even weight distribution for sleepers.
The cushioning feel and sturdy support system of this mattress are well suited to side and back sleeping.
The mattress isolates motion very well and does not make any noise, so it will be a good choice for couples.
Nectar offers a 365-night sleep trial – one of the longest in the industry – and also backs the mattress with a lifetime warranty.
Sleep Position Ratings
Saatva
The Saatva is offered with three distinct firmness levels. The medium soft feel corresponds to a 4 on the 1-10 firmness scale and provides relatively close body-conforming. Although there is still some noticeable responsiveness on the surface, this firmness level provides enough cushioning and spinal support for most side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds. For lighter side sleepers, the Saatva will likely be too firm regardless of the selected firmness level.
A medium firm (6) Saatva conforms to a moderate extent while maintaining strong support. This feel is optimal for many side and back sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. They will experience sufficient contouring and pressure relief without sinking too deeply beneath the surface, which can leave them vulnerable to neck and shoulder pain. The firm (7.5) feel barely conforms at all, and is best suited to back and stomach sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds.
Nectar Mattress
The Nectar Mattress is available in one firmness level, medium firm (6). The Nectar Mattress is constructed with two comfort layers of gel-infused memory foam that contour very closely to the body, so this medium firm feel is much different from the responsive and supportive feel of a medium firm Saatva. As a result, the Nectar is ideal for most side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds. The foam delivers ample cushioning for their shoulders and hips, which in turn can align the spine and reduce pressure throughout the body. Side sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds may find the mattress comfortable, as well, but some will prefer a softer model.
The Nectar Mattress also feels fairly supportive due to its dense memory foam transitional layer and high-density polyfoam base. These reinforcing materials prevent back sleepers from sinking too much around the torso and midsection. Stomach sleepers who weigh 130 to 230 pounds should also feel reasonably supported; those who weigh less than 130 pounds may find the mattress too firm and stiff, whereas stomach sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds will probably find the mattress excessively soft and prone to uncomfortable sinkage.
Saatva Classic
Nectar Mattress
Weight
Light
Average
Heavy
Sleep Position
Less than 130 LBS
130 LBS - 230 LBS
Greater than 230 LBS
Side
Back
Stomach
Weight
Light
Average
Heavy
Sleep Position
Less than 130 LBS
130 LBS - 230 LBS
Greater than 230 LBS
Side
Back
Stomach
Our Recommendations
Choose the Saatva Mattress if...
You want a mattress with a medium soft, medium firm, or firm feel
You’d rather sleep on a mattress with a relatively thick profile
You prefer the support and responsiveness of a coil-on-coil bed
You tend to sleep hot
Choose the Nectar Mattress if...
You want a mattress with a medium firm feel
You frequently experience pressure points and/or lower back pain
You prefer close contouring and don’t mind sinking a bit into your mattress
You normally sleep hot on all-foam beds
Technical Details Comparison
Sizing and Pricing
Below, you’ll find prices for the Saatva and Nectar Mattress in all six standard mattress sizes. In addition to those listed below, the Saatva is available in a split king size. The Nectar Mattress is not offered in this additional size.
Twin$935 (Saatva)$499 (Nectar)
Twin XL$1,225 (Saatva)$569 (Nectar)
Full$1,695 (Saatva)$699 (Nectar)
Queen$1,795 (Saatva)$799 (Nectar)
King$2,195 (Saatva)$1,099 (Nectar)
Cal King$2,195 (Saatva)$1,099 (Nectar)
Mattress Construction
Next, we’ll take a closer look at construction and material details for the Saatva and Nectar Mattress. Full specs are listed below.
The Saatva features a Euro-top cover padded with 2 inches of polyfoam and dacron fiber fill. Medium soft and medium firm models have softer polyfoam at the surface, resulting in a plush, cushioning feel. For firm Saatva models, the polyfoam padding layer in the Euro-top is thicker and firmer.
The mattress also contains comfort layers of polyfoam and memory foam, followed by a transitional layer of pocketed minicoils. These components give the Saatva a more contouring feel compared to other traditional innersprings, though sleepers will also notice plenty of support – especially if they choose a firm feel.
The support core consists of 13-gauge bonnell coils made from recycled steel. This layer measures 4 inches thick on 11.5-inch Saatva models, and 7 inches thick on 14.5-inch models. Due to its coil-on-coil design, the Saatva’s surface is very responsive and bouncy. The dual coil layers also promote steady airflow to help the mattress maintain a cool temperature. A cover made of 100 percent organic cotton encases the entire mattress for added breathability.
How Is the Nectar Mattress Built?
The Nectar Mattress begins with a comfort layer of gel-infused memory foam that measures 3 inches thick. The surface has a medium firm feel but the memory foam conforms closely and responds slowly, so sleepers will experience a deep, pressure-relieving cradle for their body. The comfort foams also have relatively low densities, making the mattress noticeably more breathable and cooler than many competing all-foam models.
A transitional polyfoam layer is located beneath the comfort layer. This foam is denser and firmer than the comfort layers. This ensures sleepers won’t sink too deeply into the mattress.
The Nectar Mattress also features a 7-inch support core constructed from high-density memory foam. This layer works with the transitional memory foam to reinforce and stabilize the mattress. Other all-foam mattresses sink quite a bit when sleepers sit along the edges, which can make getting in and out of bed somewhat difficult. Thanks to a sturdy support system, the Nectar Mattress provides above-average edge support.
Saatva Sleep Trial, Warranty, and Delivery
Sleep Trial 365 nights
Shipping Free White Glove delivery to contiguous U.S.
Warranty Lifetime, non-prorated
Made In USA & Canada
Trial Period Details
Saatva offers a 365-night sleep trial for the Saatva mattress.
This sleep trial does not require a break-in period of any kind; customers may return their mattress for a refund at any point of the 365-night trial.
In the event of a return, customers will be issued a full refund minus a flat transportation fee of $99.
Size, firmness, and thickness exchanges are also offered during the 365-night trial. Customers may exchange their bed for a flat shipping fee of $99.
Warranty
Saatva offers a lifetime warranty for the Saatva:
The warranty is completely non-prorated. During the first two years, Saatva will replace a mattress at no extra charge if it is deemed defective. For the remaining warranty period, Saatva will repair and re-cover a Saatva mattress for a flat fee of $149.
Saatva also offers the ‘Fairness Replacement Option’ in lieu of standard warranty coverage. Owners may purchase a new bed at a discounted rate, rather than having their current mattress repaired. Saatva does not charge a delivery fee and owners may keep their old mattress at no extra cost.
The warranty is contingent on the use of a proper support system. The warranty will be voided if a Queen or King mattress is used with a metal bed frame that does not have a five- or six-legged support structure. The warranty will also be voided if a Twin or Full mattress is used with a metal bed frame that does not have four legs.
The warranty covers sagging or indentations in the sleep surface that measure 1 inch or deeper.
The warranty does not cover sagging or indentations that measure less than 1 inch deep. Additionally, the warranty will not cover physical damage to the mattress, including burns, cuts, or stains.
Customers must notify Saatva in writing regarding any claims.
The warranty is exclusively available for original owners that purchase their mattress from Saatva or an authorized retailer. Those who buy or acquire their mattress from the original owner or a non-authorized retailer will not be eligible for warranty coverage.
Delivery Details
Saatva’s delivery policy for Saatva mattresses is as follows:
Saatva does not charge a cancellation fee prior to the day of delivery.
Saatva mattresses are made to order, and delivery times vary by location. Customers can input their zip code on Saatva’s delivery information page to see the expected wait time for their location.
Customers will be given a four-hour window for the time of delivery on the predetermined day. An adult (18 years or older) must be on the premises at the time of delivery. Couriers will wait 20 minutes if the customer is running late to meet them, after which point the delivery can be rescheduled at no extra charge.
If the wrong mattress is delivered, then the customer may arrange a new delivery time at no additional cost. In the meantime, they will be allowed to use the incorrect mattress; once the correct delivery has been made, the original mattress will be donated to charity.
If couriers cannot fit the mattress into the customer’s bedroom due to stairs or other obstacles, they will reschedule delivery for a mattress with a smaller size. Customers won’t need to pay any extra fees apart from an additional $99 transportation fee.
Saatva Coupons and Discounts
Get $200 off when you spend $1,000 or more at Saatva.com.
Nectar offers a 365-night sleep trial for the Nectar Mattress:
There is a mandatory 30-day break-in period. Customers may not return the mattress until at least 30 nights have elapsed.
Nectar will cover all shipping and handling costs related to the mattress return for customers in the contiguous U.S. Those in Alaska and Hawaii are not eligible for mattress returns. Additionally, White Glove delivery charges are non-refundable.
Nectar will coordinate pickup services for all mattress returns in the contiguous U.S. at no cost to the owner. Customers do not need to keep the original mattress packaging.
Mattress exchanges are available as part of Nectar’s return policy. Those who wish to exchange their current mattress for a different model must purchase the replacement before receiving a refund for the original model.
The mattress must be removed from its shipping box within 90 nights of the delivery date. Otherwise, the sleep trial will be voided.
Warranty
Nectar offers a lifetime warranty (also known as the ‘Forever Warranty’) for all mattresses:
Warranty coverage will begin on the date of original purchase, and is divided into two periods. For the first10 years, Nectar will replace defective mattresses at no cost to the owner, including shipping and transportation fees. Nectar still replaces defective mattresses after 10 years, but owners must pay a flat charge of $50 each way for shipping and transportation.
The Nectar mattress is designed for use on a ‘firm, solid-surface, on a bed base that is structurally capable of supporting the weight of the Mattress and user(s)’. These include platform beds, box springs, flat bases, and other types of ‘suitable bed frame or dedicated clean and flat flooring area’. Use of an improper foundation will result in the warranty being voided.
The warranty will cover surface indentations of 1.5 inches or deeper. Other covered defects include physical flaws that cause foams to deteriorate and manufacturing flaws associated with the cover.
The warranty will not cover indentations less than 1.5 inches. This is considered normal wear and tear. The warranty also does not cover issues related to changes in the owner’s comfort preferences or burns, cuts, stains, and other types of physical damage.
Replacing a mattress will not result in a new warranty. All replacements fall under the same lifetime warranty as the original model.
The warranty is non-transferable, and only applies to original owners who purchase their mattress directly from Nectar or an authorized retailer. Those who buy or acquire their mattress from the original owner or an unauthorized Nectar retailer will not receive warranty coverage.
Delivery Details
The delivery policy for Nectar is as follows:
Ground shipping is free within the contiguous U.S. Those who reside in Alaska or Hawaii must pay an additional delivery charge of $150. Shipping is not available outside the 50 states.
Nectar’s free ground shipping is coordinated through FedEx Ground. Most customers will receive their mattress within one to five business days. In the event of a shipping delay, Nectar will contact the customer and provide a delivery date estimate; the company will also modify the delivery upon request.
Nectar also offers White Glove delivery for a flat fee of $149 per mattress, plus an additional $25 for other items included in the order. This service includes scheduled delivery date and time, in-home assembly, and old mattress removal upon request. Those who request White Glove delivery should plan to receive their mattress within three to seven business days.
Nectar Coupons and Discounts
Get $399 worth of free accessories with every Nectar mattress purchase.
