If you’ve ever stayed at a Holiday Inn and enjoyed a fantastic night’s sleep, you’ve probably wondered, what mattress does Holiday Inn use? That comfortable, consistent bed is a big part of the hotel experience, and it’s no accident. Many travelers want that same hotel bed feeling in their own home. This article will give you the full details on the specific mattresses, why they’re chosen, and how you can get a similar sleep setup.
Knowing the brand and model is just the start. We’ll look at the reasons behind Holiday Inn’s choices, from durability for constant use to the comfort that guests expect. You’ll also get practical advice on finding comparable mattresses for your own bedroom, even if you’re not buying the exact commercial model.
What Mattress Does Holiday Inn Use
Holiday Inn, part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts family, primarily uses mattresses from Serta. The specific model is often the Serta Perfect Sleeper. In some locations and for certain room types, you might find the Serta Suite Dreams or other Serta commercial series. These mattresses are specially designed for hotel use, meaning they are built to withstand years of constant service while providing a balanced, comfortable feel for a wide range of sleepers.
The choice of Serta is a result of a long-standing partnership. IHG has worked with Serta to develop bedding that supports their brand promise of a reliable and restful stay. The mattresses are not usually the exact same ones you can buy in a retail store; they are commercial-grade versions. However, the core technology and feel are very similar to Serta’s consumer lines.
Why Serta Mattresses Are a Hotel Favorite
Hotels like Holiday Inn have very specific needs when it comes to bedding. It’s not just about comfort—though that’s crucial. The mattress must be durable, cost-effective to maintain, and consistently comfortable for almost anyone.
- Durability: Hotel mattresses are used every single night, often by different people with different body types. The commercial Serta mattresses at Holiday Inn are built with reinforced edges and high-density foams to prevent sagging and maintain their shape for years.
- Universal Comfort: They aim for a “just right” medium-firm feel. This is not an ultra-plush or an extra-firm bed. It’s designed to offer good support and pressure relief for most back and side sleepers, which covers the majority of guests.
- Ease of Maintenance: The mattresses are designed to be compatible with waterproof protectors and are easy for housekeeping to clean and turn. Their construction resists odors and allergens better than some residential models.
- Brand Trust: Serta is a well-known name that guests recognize and trust. This adds to the perception of quality and a good night’s sleep before the guest even lies down.
The Specifics: Serta Perfect Sleeper in Detail
The Serta Perfect Sleeper is the most common mattress you’ll find at Holiday Inn. This line is famous for its balance. Let’s break down its common features in the hotel version.
Comfort and Support Layers
The top layers usually include Serta’s Cool Twist Gel Foam or similar memory foam. This provides contouring pressure relief while helping to disperse heat. Beneath that, there is often a layer of supportive foam or individually wrapped coils. The coil systems in hotel models are typicly heavy-duty to prevent motion transfer—so you won’t feel your partner moving during the night.
The Feel and Firmness
Most guests describe the Holiday Inn Serta mattress as a medium-firm. It has a plush initial feel when you first lie down, but you quickly feel the supportive pushback from the core. This prevents that “sinking in” feeling that some all-foam beds have. It’s excellent for back sleepers and good for many side sleepers, especially those who need support for their hips and shoulders.
How to Get the Holiday Inn Bed Experience at Home
You might love the bed so much you want one for yourself. Here are your main options, from getting the exact mattress to finding a suitable alternative.
- Check for Hotel Collection Retailers: Serta sometimes sells “Hotel Collection” or “Commercial” models through select retailers. You can contact Serta directly or search for authorized commercial furniture dealers in your area. Be prepared: these are often sold in bulk or at a higher price point than retail models.
- Buy the Retail Version: The Serta Perfect Sleeper line is widely available in mattress stores. While not identical, the retail Serta Perfect Sleeper in a medium-firm or plush firm option will give you a very similar experience. Test a few in a store to find the closest match.
- Recreate the Setup: The hotel sleep experience isn’t just the mattress. It’s the whole package. Holiday Inn typically uses a mattress protector, a plush mattress pad or topper, high-thread-count cotton sheets, a warm duvet, and supportive pillows. Adding a quality mattress topper to your existing firm bed can mimic that soft-yet-supportive top layer.
Other Components of the Holiday Inn Sleep System
The mattress is the star, but the supporting cast is essential. Ignoring these can leave you wondering why your home bed doesn’t feel the same.
- Box Spring/Foundation: Holiday Inn uses a sturdy, commercial-grade box spring or foundation. This is crucial for proper support. Putting a new mattress on an old, sagging foundation will ruin the feel.
- Mattress Pad/Topper: This is a secret weapon. A thick, quilted mattress pad adds that initial cloud-like plushness. It also protects the mattress.
- Pillows: They usually offer a mix of firm and soft pillows, often down-alternative. The right pillow for your sleep position is key to neck support.
- Bed Linens: Crisp, white cotton sheets with a high thread count (often 200-300) feel cool and smooth. The layers of sheets, blankets, and a duvet create a cozy, weightless feeling.
Comparing Holiday Inn’s Mattress to Other Hotel Beds
It’s helpful to know how Holiday Inn’s choice compares to its competitors. This context shows why they made their specific choice.
- Holiday Inn (Serta) vs. Westin (Heavenly Bed): Westin uses its own proprietary pillow-top mattress, which is generally plusher and has a more “sinking in” feel compared to Holiday Inn’s balanced medium-firm.
- Holiday Inn vs. Hilton (Serta or Beautyrest): Hilton also often uses Serta, but sometimes Beautyrest. Their feels can vary more by brand within the Hilton portfolio, but are often in a similar medium-firm category.
- Holiday Inn vs. Marriott: Marriott frequently uses Simmons Beautyrest or custom Sealy models. Again, the target is often a universal medium-firm comfort, but the specific coil and foam constructions differ.
The main takeaway is that Holiday Inn’s Serta bed is designed for broad appeal and durability, while some luxury brands opt for a plusher, more distinctive feel.
Caring for Your Mattress to Make it Last Like a Hotel’s
Hotels are experts at maintaining mattresses. Follow these steps to extend the life of your own mattress, whether it’s a Serta or another brand.
- Use a Mattress Protector: This is non-negotiable. A waterproof, breathable protector shields from spills, stains, dust mites, and allergens. It’s the first thing hotels put on a new bed.
- Rotate Regularly: You should rotate your mattress head-to-foot every 3-6 months. This evens out wear from body impressions. (Most hotel mattresses are single-sided, so they don’t flip).
- Support it Right: Ensure your bed frame or foundation is solid, with a center support bar if it’s a queen or larger. Slats should be no more than 3 inches apart.
- Clean Spills Immediately: Blot, don’t rub, any liquid spills. Use a mild detergent with cold water. Avoid soaking the mattress.
FAQs About Holiday Inn Mattresses
Can I buy the exact mattress from Holiday Inn?
Sometimes, but not easily. The exact commercial model is typically sold through bulk suppliers. Your best bet is to purchase the retail version of the Serta Perfect Sleeper, which is nearly identical in feel and construction.
What kind of mattress topper does Holiday Inn use?
They usually use a thick, quilted mattress pad, often filled with a down-alternative or polyfiber. This adds the signature plush top layer. Brands like Protect-A-Bed or SureFit are common in the hospitality industry.
Is the Holiday Inn mattress good for back pain?
Many people with back pain find the medium-firm support of the Serta Perfect Sleeper helpful. It keeps the spine aligned without being too hard. However, back pain is personal, so it’s not a guarantee. It’s always a good idea to consult with a doctor for persistent issues.
How often do Holiday Inns replace their mattresses?
Hotel replace mattresses on a schedule, usually every 5 to 7 years, depending on wear and tear. The commercial versions are built to last at least this long under constant use.
What pillows are used at Holiday Inn?
They typically offer a choice of firm and soft pillows, often made from down-alternative hypoallergenic materials. Brands can vary, but they are usually medium-loft pillows suited for a variety of sleep positions.
Why did I sleep better at the hotel than at home?
It’s not just the mattress! A combination of factors contributes: a new sleep environment, high-quality bedding, effective blackout curtains, air conditioning, and maybe even vacation relaxation. Your home mattress might also be older or not as supportive as you need.
Making Your Final Decision
If your goal is to replicate the Holiday Inn sleep experience, start by trying a Serta Perfect Sleeper in a medium-firm at a local store. Pay attention to the support it gives your lower back and hips. Remember to budget for the entire sleep system—a good foundation, protector, pad, and sheets. While the exact commercial mattress might be elusive, you can absolutely come very close to that reliable, comfortable hotel bed feel. With the right components and care, you can enjoy a Holiday Inn-quality sleep every single night in your own bedroom.