We have just reviewed the Art & Science Balmoral King mattress, trying to get a real feel for it. As someone who’s constantly on the hunt for that perfect sleep, I know you want the unvarnished truth. No fluff, just what it’s really like to sleep on this thing. I picked up the Balanced Comfort version, as I tend to be a back sleeper with occasional side stints and sometimes wake up with a grumpy lower back. Let’s get into it.
First Impressions & Setup
When the Balmoral arrived, I was relieved it wasn’t a mattress-in-a-box. While these are convenient, I was looking forward to something a little higher quality. It came ready to go, which is a massive win when you’re just eager to get it on your bedbase and relax. It was wrapped in a tough plastic cover which would protect it well during postage. Sliding it onto my bed frame, I immediately noticed the substantial feel. This mattress looks and feels like a quality piece from the get-go. The fabric on top felt incredibly soft and inviting – definitely a step up from some of the rougher covers I’ve encountered. There was practically no off-gassing smell, which was a pleasant surprise and meant I could truly start using it from night one.
Comfort & Support: My Nights on the Balmoral
Choosing the “Balanced Comfort” option as a primary back and side sleeper, I need that solid surface to keep my spine aligned. From the first night, I noticed how well the support worked, I assume due to the 3-zone pocket spring unit. My lower back felt genuinely supported, not like it was sinking into a hammock. This is a common pain point for me, and after two weeks, the morning ache I sometimes get has significantly reduced.
When I shifted to my side, which I do occasionally, I didn’t feel any immediate pressure points on my shoulder or hip, which often happens on overly firm mattresses. The combination of the pocket springs and the comfort layers seemed to adapt surprisingly well. It’s a “firm” feel, but it’s not a “hard” feel. It’s got a subtle give that molds just enough without letting you sink in too far. I found the cooling gel memory foam in the comfort layers provided just enough contouring without that “stuck” feeling some memory foam mattresses give.
This mattress boasts luxurious layers of Certi-Pur Certified Foam with cooling gel memory foam
Temperature Regulation: Did I Sleep Hot?
This is a big one for me, as I tend to sleep warm. The promise of the Tencel fabric and cooling gel memory foam really piqued my interest. After two weeks, even during some warmer nights, I genuinely felt that the Balmoral did a commendable job of keeping me from overheating. I didn’t wake up feeling clammy or sticky, which has been an issue on previous mattresses. The breathability of the Tencel really seems to make a difference, drawing away heat and moisture.
Motion Isolation: No More Partner Jitters
I share my bed with a partner who is a notorious restless sleeper. This is often my biggest concern with mattresses. The individually pocketed coils in the Balmoral truly lived up to their promise. I barely felt my partner get in and out of bed or shift positions during the night. We both experienced noticeably less disturbance, which translates directly to better, more uninterrupted sleep for both of us. The claim that “tossing and turning and partner disturbance are virtually eliminated” isn’t just marketing hype in my experience.
Edge Support: Maxing Out the Space
Another pet peeve of mine is mattresses that sag at the edges. I often find myself near the edge of the bed, and that “roll-off” feeling can be annoying. The high-density foam edge on the Balmoral was fantastic. It’s truly sturdy; I could sit comfortably on the side of the bed without it squishing down, and I felt fully supported right to the very perimeter. This means you really get to use the entire surface of the King size, which is exactly what you want.
The “ActiFresh” Factor
While I can’t scientifically test the ActiFresh anti-bacterial hygiene treatment over two weeks, it’s certainly a reassuring feature. Knowing that the mattress is designed to guard against dust mites, allergens, and unwanted odor adds a layer of confidence, especially if you’re health-conscious or have allergies like me. The mattress felt and smelled clean from day one, with no lingering chemical scents.
My Verdict: A Solid Sleeper for the Price
After two weeks of sleeping on the Art & Science Balmoral mattress (Firm Support), I’m genuinely impressed. It delivers on its promises of support, motion isolation, and temperature regulation, especially for its price point. At the current sale price (under $1000 for a King), it feels like an exceptional value. You’re getting features and a level of comfort often found in mattresses twice the cost.
Who I think this mattress is perfect for:
- Back and stomach sleepers: Especially the Firm Support and Extra Firm options. My back felt noticeably better.
- Couples: The motion isolation was a game-changer for me and my partner.
- Hot sleepers: The Tencel and gel memory foam really worked to keep me cool.
- Value seekers: If you want a mattress that punches above its weight in terms of features and comfort without breaking the bank.
- Anyone wanting a clean sleep environment: The ActiFresh is a nice bonus.
Who it might not be for (based on my experience with the Firm Support):
- If you’re an extreme side sleeper who needs a super soft, cloud-like sink, the “Extra Comfort” or “Balanced Comfort” options would be your best bet, but my “Firm Support” would likely be too firm for you.
- If you’re expecting the deep “hug” of a pure memory foam mattress, this hybrid approach with pocket springs will feel more responsive.
The 100-Night Sleep Promise is a smart move by Sleeping Giant. It gives you the chance to truly test it out, like I did, and exchange it if the firmness isn’t quite right. For me, the Art & Science Balmoral has been a surprisingly comfortable and supportive sleep upgrade. If you’re a discerning sleeper looking for quality without the huge price tag, I’d say this one is definitely worth a closer look.
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