Hi Christyhomebills,
Welcome to the Mattress UnderGround!
I completely understand how frustrating it can be to deal with back pain, especially as plus-size (I am 6’ 220, formerly 250+) individuals where support in a mattress is crucial.
Your experience with the Purple mattress doesn’t surprise me. Many modern mattresses use innovative technologies, but not all hold up well over time. Here’s a video that illustrates some concerns with the Purple mattress: Example 1 and Example 2.
As for the Celebrity Cruise mattress, it seems like you may be referring to this model: Cashmere Mattress. One notable feature is the foam-encased perimeter support around the coils, which can impact overall stability. You can learn more about edge support options here: Edge Support Video.
It’s common for destination mattresses, like those on cruise ships,hotels or destination residences to have a universal firmness level (often around 7/10). This is designed to accommodate a wide range of sleepers. Many people return home, excited to replicate that comfort, only to find that their initial euphoric experience fades into oblivion after a few months. Plus, most of these proprietary made for vacation resorts, tend to offer no trial or return policy to speak of.
While you’ve had a challenging experience with latex, don’t completely rule it out. If you have decided latex is not the feel or comfort you prefer there are plenty of alternatives in your price range, many of which offer trial periods for exchanges if they don’t meet your expectations. Working with a mattress professional who specializes in plus-size sleepers can significantly enhance your chances of finding the right fit for restful nights.
Consider looking into trusted manufacturers like @EngineeredSleep, @DLX, or other manufacturers such as Custom Comfort, Shifman, and Millbrook (a British-made option). These brands often provide mattresses that can deliver the comfort you experienced on your cruise, with durability that lasts 20 years or more. Keep in mind that many destination mattresses are rotated out after about 5 years, as they’re designed for shorter-term use.
While it’s certainly valuable to test a mattress before buying, I want to emphasize that a 30-minute trial in a store may not provide a complete picture of long-term comfort. True comfort often reveals itself after a few months of sleep. Testing can help eliminate mattresses that are immediately too soft and determine if the feel aligns with your preferences when you first lie down.
That said, I wouldn’t completely dismiss the idea of purchasing a mattress online, especially if you’ve consulted with a knowledgeable professional at the retailer you plan to buy from. Many smaller independent mattress sellers have a strong incentive to ensure you find the right fit on the first try. It’s in everyone’s best interest to avoid unnecessary and costly exchanges, particularly for the retailer who aims to accommodate your needs.
Best of luck in your search, and feel free to reach out if you have more questions!
Maverick