Choosing a new mattress can feel overwhelming with so many options. Two popular online brands you’ll likely consider are Lull and GhostBed. This guide will break down the key differences between the Lull vs GhostBed mattresses to help you decide which one is the better fit for your sleep style and needs.
We’ll look at how they’re built, how they feel, and who they’re best for. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture to make a confident choice for your next mattress.
Lull vs GhostBed
At first glance, Lull and GhostBed might seem similar—they’re both bed-in-a-box brands offering convenience and value. However, their approaches to comfort and construction are quite different. Lull is known for its simple, all-foam design focused on balanced, medium-plush comfort. GhostBed, on the other hand, often incorporates latex or gel-infused foams and offers multiple models with distinct feels, including a popular hybrid option. Understanding this core difference is the first step in your decision.
Construction and Materials: What’s Inside?
What a mattress is made of determines how it feels and how long it will last. Let’s peel back the covers on each brand’s flagship model.
Lull Mattress Construction:
The original Lull mattress is a three-layer all-foam design. It’s built for simplicity and pressure relief.
* Top Layer (Comfort Layer): A proprietary gel-infused memory foam. This layer is designed to cushion your body and absorb motion, while the gel infusion aims to help with temperature regulation.
* Middle Layer (Transition Layer): A responsive polyfoam layer. This is key—it prevents you from sinking too deeply into the memory foam and provides a bit of bounce and support.
* Base Layer (Support Core): A high-density polyfoam foundation. This sturdy base gives the mattress its overall shape and durability.
GhostBed Classic Construction:
The original GhostBed is also an all-foam mattress, but it uses latex in its comfort layer, which is a significant departure from Lull.
* Top Layer (Comfort Layer): 1.5 inches of aerated latex foam. Latex is naturally responsive and cooling. It contours without the deep “sink” of traditional memory foam and sleeps cooler.
* Second Layer (Transition Layer): 2 inches of gel-infused memory foam. This adds conforming pressure relief beneath the bouncy latex.
* Base Layer (Support Core): 7.5 inches of high-density support foam. This provides a deep, stable foundation for the layers above.
Key Takeaway: Lull uses a more traditional memory foam feel on top, while GhostBed leads with bouncy, cooling latex. This material choice in the comfort layer is the biggest factor in how each bed feels.
Firmness and Feel: How Do They Sleep?
Feel is subjective, but here’s a general comparison based on widespread user feedback.
Lull Feel:
The Lull mattress is generally rated around a medium (5 out of 10 on the firmness scale). It offers a balanced foam feel.
* You’ll experience gentle contouring and pressure relief, especially on shoulders and hips.
* The transition layer provides a slow sink-in feeling rather than an immediate plush hug.
* It has minimal bounce, which can be good for isolating motion but might make changing positions feel slower.
GhostBed Feel:
The original GhostBed is often rated a medium-firm (6.5 to 7 out of 10). Its feel is more unique due to the latex.
* The latex top provides a buoyant, “on top of the bed” feeling. You won’t sink in deeply.
* It offers a quicker response to pressure—when you press down and release, the latex snaps back fast.
* The combination gives a more supportive and cooler sleep surface compared to many all-foam beds.
Who might prefer Lull’s feel? Side sleepers who like a cushioned hug, couples who need excellent motion isolation, and those who enjoy the classic memory foam sensation.
Who might prefer GhostBed’s feel? Back and stomach sleepers who need firmer support, hot sleepers who want a cooler foam option, and anyone who dislikes the stuck-in-the-mud feeling of some memory foam.
Temperature Regulation: Which Sleeps Cooler?
If you tend to sleep hot, this is a crucial category.
* Lull: The gel infusion in its top memory foam layer is meant to draw heat away. However, memory foam is known for retaining body heat. While it’s not the hottest foam mattress, it may not be the best choice for someone who sleeps very warm. The breathability is decent but not exceptional.
* GhostBed: Has a clear advantage here. Latex is naturally more breathable and doesn’t absorb heat like memory foam. The aeration in the GhostBed’s latex layer enhances airflow. The gel memory foam beneath also helps. For an all-foam mattress, the GhostBed Classic is a strong performer for temperature neutrality.
Motion Isolation and Edge Support
How a mattress handles movement and its usable sleep surface matters for couples.
Motion Isolation:
* Lull: Excels at this. Its memory foam comfort layer absorbs movement very effectively. If your partner gets up or tosses, you’re unlikely to feel it across the bed.
* GhostBed: Good, but not the best. The responsive latex top layer transmits a bit more motion than memory foam. It’s still quite good for an all-foam bed, but side-by-side, Lull has the edge in isolation.
Edge Support:
* Lull: Has typical all-foam edge support. You’ll experience some compression when sitting or sleeping near the edge. It’s sufficient but not outstanding.
* GhostBed: Performs similarly. Both mattresses have reinforced edges in their base foam, but without coils, there will be some give. For significantly better edge support, you’d need to look at the GhostBed Luxe or GhostBed Flex hybrid models.
Pricing and Value
Both brands offer good value, but their pricing structures differ slightly. Always check their websites for current promotions, as sales are frequent.
* Lull: Positions itself as a straightforward, value-oriented option. Its pricing is often slightly lower than the GhostBed Classic, making it an attractive entry-point for a quality foam mattress.
* GhostBed: Typically comes at a moderate price point. The use of natural latex justifies a slightly higher cost for many shoppers. GhostBed also offers a wider range (Luxe, Flex, 3D Matrix) at higher price tiers for more features.
Trial, Warranty, and Shipping
Both companies follow the standard direct-to-consumer model with generous policies.
* Sleep Trial: Both offer a 100-night sleep trial. You must keep the mattress for at least 30 nights (the break-in period) before initiating a return.
* Warranty: Both back their mattresses with a 10-year limited warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship.
* Shipping: Both ship free in the contiguous U.S. They compress, roll, and ship the mattress in a box to your doorstep.
Which Mattress is Best For You?
This decision ultimately comes down to your primary sleep needs.
Choose the Lull Mattress if:
* You are a side sleeper or combination sleeper who prefers a medium, balanced feel.
* You love the classic contouring hug of memory foam.
* You sleep with a partner and need top-tier motion isolation.
* You are looking for a straightforward, value-priced all-foam bed.
Choose the GhostBed Classic if:
* You are a back sleeper, stomach sleeper, or heavier individual who needs firmer support.
* You sleep hot and want the cooling benefits of latex.
* You dislike the sinking feeling and want a more responsive, buoyant surface.
* You appreciate the unique feel and durability of natural latex foam.
Beyond the Classic: Other Models to Consider
Both brands have expanded their lines. Here’s a quick look.
GhostBed Luxe: This is GhostBed’s premium cooling mattress. It uses a phase-change material cover and multiple gel layers for exceptional temperature regulation. It’s softer than the Classic and aimed at hot sleepers who want plush comfort.
GhostBed Flex: A hybrid mattress with pocketed coils and latex. It offers better edge support, more bounce, and enhanced cooling than the all-foam Classic. A great option for those who want the support of coils with the GhostBed feel.
Lull Premium: An enhanced version of the original with a plush, breathable cover and a slightly adjusted foam formulation for improved pressure relief and cooling. It’s a direct step-up for loyal Lull customers.
Step-by-Step Buying Guide
1. Assess Your Sleep Position: Are you mostly on your side, back, or stomach? Side sleepers often need more cushion (Lull), while back/stomach need firmer support (GhostBed).
2. Consider Temperature: Be honest about if you sleep hot. If it’s a major concern, GhostBed’s latex is a better starting point.
3. Think About Feel Preference: Do you like to sink in and be cradled, or do you prefer to sleep on top of a supportive surface? This is the core difference.
4. Set Your Budget: Determine your price range. Remember to factor in any current sales or bundle deals.
5. Check the Return Policy: Understand the 100-night trial process. Know you’ll need to give it at least a month to adjust.
6. Order Your Top Choice: Once you’ve weighed the factors, place your order confidently. Both companies make the process simple.
Care and Maintenance Tips
To make your new mattress last, follow these simple steps.
* Use a mattress protector from day one. It guards against spills, stains, and allergens.
* Rotate the mattress head-to-foot every 3-6 months for the first few years to ensure even wear. Most foam models do not need flipping.
* Clean spills immediately with a mild soap and cold water. Avoid soaking the foam layers.
* Ensure you have a proper, supportive foundation. A slatted base, platform bed, or adjustable base works well. Just make sure slats are no more than 3 inches apart.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Lull or GhostBed better for side sleepers?
A: Generally, the Lull mattress is often better for strict side sleepers due to its softer, more pressure-relieving feel. The GhostBed Classic can be too firm for some side sleepers, though the GhostBed Luxe is a softer alternative.
Q: Which brand is more firm, Lull or Ghostbed?
A: The GhostBed Classic is notably firmer than the Lull. Lull is a true medium, while GhostBed is a medium-firm. This is one of the most significant differences between them.
Q: Do both mattresses come in a box?
A: Yes, both the Lull and GhostBed mattresses are compressed, rolled, and delivered in a cardboard box for easy shipping and setup in your home.
Q: How long does it take for the mattresses to fully expand?
A: They will expand to full size within minutes, but it’s recommended to allow 24-48 hours for any residual odors to dissipate and for the foams to reach their final shape and firmness.
Q: Can I use these mattresses on an adjustable bed frame?
A: Yes, both the all-foam Lull and the all-foam GhostBed Classic are compatible with adjustable bases. Always double-check the manufacturer’s recommendations for their hybrid models.
Q: Which one has better motion isolation, Lull or Ghostbed?
A: The Lull mattress typically provides better motion isolation because of its memory foam comfort layer. The GhostBed’s latex is more responsive, so it transfers a bit more movement.
Choosing between Lull and GhostBed isn’t about finding a universally “better” mattress. It’s about matching a mattress to your body and preferences. The Lull offers a reliable, contouring memory foam feel at a great price, ideal for couples and side sleepers. The GhostBed Classic provides a unique, supportive, and cooler latex feel that’s excellent for back sleepers and hot sleepers.
Take your time, consider what matters most for your sleep, and use the generous trial periods to your advantage. With this detailed comparison, you’re well-equipped to make the choice that will lead to better sleep for years to come.