LAYLA ESSENTIAL MATTRESS REVIEW
We love Layla mattresses for they manufacture their mattresses in the USA, free of fiberglass. The Layla Essential mattress is, by far, their cheapest, entry-level, mattress, designed to provide high-quality comfort at an affordable price point while retaining many of the features that make Layla a trusted mattress brand.
With a focus on breathability, pressure relief, and long-term durability, this mattress is crafted using proprietary open-cell foams and a washable cover.
It’s a fiberglass-free, CertiPUR-US certified, and made-in-the-USA mattress that appeals to budget-conscious shoppers who don’t want to compromise on quality. Let’s take a closer look!
Company Policies & Recommendations
Layla Essential Mattress - Composition
The Layla Essential mattress is made of two foam layers and a removable cover. All layers work together to balance comfort, airflow, and long-term durability. Let’s take a look at the construction layer by layer:
Hexagon Stitched Cover
Material: 98% Polyester, 2% Lycra
Features: Soft hexagon texturing, breathable, stain-resistant, zippable, and washable
Function: This cover not only feels soft and inviting but also allows the mattress to keep clean and cool. Its washable, stain-resistant design makes it easy to maintain, while its breathable fibers enhance airflow throughout the mattress and keep sleepers more comfortable throughout the night
Lux OpenCell+ Memory Foam
Firmness/Density: Medium, 2.5 lb density / 9 lb ILD
Cooling: Excellent temperature regulation thanks to its open cell design, which lets air move throughout the entire layer
Function: The Lux OpenCell+ Memory Foam is designed to provide the cushioning pressure relief that memory foam is known for, but with a modern update: its open-cell structure enhances airflow and prevents the trapped heat issue commonly associated with older memory foam designs. As the very first layer touching your body, it provides the pressure relief you need in the hips and shoulders. This layer also adds durability and longevity to the mattress, so you don’t have to worry about premature sagging
High-Density Foam
Density/ILD: Firm, 1.5 lb density / 35 lb ILD
Function: This base foam acts as the solid support core of the Layla Essential mattress, aligning your spine and supporting your joints. Like the comfort foam above, it is an open-cell design, which keeps air flowing throughout the bed.
Zippable Bottom Cover
Material: 100% Polyester
Features: Breathable, zippered design that fully encloses the mattress
Function: The zippable bottom cover offers two key benefits: it contributes to the overall airflow of the mattress, and it allows you to machine wash the entire cover. While Layla recommends dry cleaning, we have successfully machine washed and dried it at home.
Fiberglass-Free and Made in the USA
Unlike many budget foam mattresses on the market, the Layla Essential mattress is fiberglass-free. Instead of using fiberglass as a fire barrier, Layla uses safer, certified alternatives, which are especially important in a mattress which cover can be unzipped. Additionally, all foams are CertiPUR-US certified, which means they are free from harmful chemicals and low in VOCs. To top it off, this mattress is made in the USA, giving the brand more control about the quality of materials and craftsmanship, for a safer and more sustainable mattress.
Layla Essential Mattress Sleep Tests
Everything we felt in one box
| Firmness | Temperature | Maintenance | Sleeping Style | Bed Base |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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We rated the Layla Essential mattress a medium-firm 7/10 on the firmness scale. Its top foam layer provides gentle pressure relief with a bit of bounce, while its high-density foam layer works at aligning your spine and bringing support to your high-pressure areas. |
Thanks to its open-cell foam layers and breathable cover, the Layla Essential mattress regulates temperature well for a memory foam bed, thanks to the large amount of air flowing through its layers (foams and cover). Hot sleepers will find it cooler than many budget all-foam options. |
The mattress cover can be unzipped and washed in the washing machine on a gentle cycle for an easy wash. You can dry it at home on low heat. Note that Layla recommends dry cleaning if possible. Remember to always use a waterproof mattress protector for ultimate protection. |
The Layla Essential is a great mattress for all back sleepers, and stomach sleepers under 200 lbs, who need proper spinal support. Some heavier side sleepers over 220 lbs may also enjoy it, but lightweight side sleepers will need a softer mattress. |
As with most modern mattresses, the Layla Essential mattress can be placed on any bed frame – box springs, divan bases, traditional frames, slats, adjustable bases, and even the floor will do! |
Firmness & Sleeping Styles
We have rated the Layla Essential mattress a 7/10 on the firmness scale, placing it in the medium-firm category (average mattress firmness is 6.5/10). This firmness level is beneficial to a variety of sleepers, but particularly well-suited for:
Back Sleepers: This firmness level is ideal for all back sleepers, providing enough support to keep the spine aligned while still offering gentle cushioning for the lower back.
Stomach Sleepers (under 200 lbs): Stomach sleepers often need a firmer surface to prevent hips from sinking too far. The Layla Essential mattress is supportive enough for stomach sleepers under 200 pounds. Above that weight, most sleepers would benefit from a firmer mattress of at least 8/10 to prevent excessive sinking of the hips.
Side Sleepers (heavier than 220 lbs): Some heavier side sleepers may also find the mattress comfortable, as the foam layers provide the support of heavier pressure areas (hips and shoulders). Most side-sleepers however, will prefer a plusher mattress with more pressure relief.
- Back Pain: Sleepers with back pain often require a firmer mattress to support the spine and align it from head to tailbone. The Layla Essential provides the right amount of firmness for those sleepers.
Overall, the Layla Essential mattress is versatile but best suited for back sleepers, stomach sleepers under 200 lbs, and some heavier side sleepers.
Temperature Regulation
One of the biggest drawbacks of traditional memory foam mattresses is heat retention. However, the Layla Essential mattress addresses this with its Lux OpenCell+ Memory Foam and open-cell support foam. These technologies ensure that air circulates freely through the mattress, preventing hot spots. This open-cell foam is mostly air, making it one of the most breathable foams on the market.
Additionally, the breathable hexagon cover adds another layer of temperature regulation by wicking away heat and moisture and allowing air to come in and out of the Layla Essential mattress.
The combination of breathable materials and open-cell foam structures makes this mattress a good choice for hot sleepers who want cooling benefits without paying a premium price.
Motion Transfer
The Layla Essential mattress handles motion transfer well. The Lux OpenCell+ Memory Foam absorbs movement effectively without spreading it to the other side of the bed, which means partners are less likely to disturb each other during the night. This makes the mattress a good option for couples, particularly if one partner is a restless sleeper.
Maintenance & Durability
Caring for the Layla Essential mattress is straightforward, thanks to its washable and stain-resistant cover. Note that you should only ever unzip the cover of a fiberglass-free mattress – which is the case of the Layla Essential. Here are the key points:
The removable hexagon cover can be unzipped and machine-washed on a gentle cycle, then dried in low heat, making it easy to keep the mattress clean.
Rotating the mattress 2–3 times per year is recommended to ensure even wear.
We always recommend using a waterproof mattress protector to extend the lifespan of your cover and keep the cover fresher between washes.
Because of its fiberglass-free design, you don’t have to worry about harmful particles escaping if you remove the cover.
Layla Mattresses Compared
| Feature | Layla Essential | Layla Memory Foam | Layla Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | All-foam | All-foam (flippable) | Hybrid (foam + coils) |
| Firmness | Medium-firm (7/10) | Flippable: Soft (4.5/10) & Firm (7/10) | Flippable: Soft (5/10) & Firm (7/10) |
| Height | 9″ | 10.5″ | 13″ |
| Cover | Hexagon stitched, breathable, washable, stain-resistant | Thermogel® infused, cooling, soft & removable | Thermogel® infused, cooling, quilted cover |
| Comfort Foam | Lux OpenCell+ high-density memory foam | Copper-infused memory foam (cooling & antimicrobial) | Copper-infused memory foam + Max Airflow Support Foam |
| Support Core | High-density polyfoam (1.5 lb density / 35 lb ILD ) | High-density polyfoam (1.5 lb density / 35 lb ILD) | Individually wrapped coils + foam support layers (1.5 lb density / 35 lb ILD) |
| Cooling Features | Open-cell foams + breathable cover | Copper infusion + Thermogel cover | Copper infusion + Thermogel cover + coil airflow |
| Motion Isolation | Very good | Excellent | Very good |
| Best For | Back sleepers, stomach sleepers under 200 lbs, budget shoppers | Side sleepers on Soft Side, back and stomach sleepers <180 lbs on Firm Side, those who want two firmness options | Side sleepers on Soft Side, back and stomach sleepers <180 lbs on Firm Side those wanting bounce + support |
| Price Range | $ | $$ | $$$ |
| Made in USA | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Fiberglass-Free | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Who Is The Layla Essential Mattress Good For?
The Layla Essential mattress is best suited for:
Back sleepers who need a balance of comfort and spinal support
Stomach sleepers under 200 lbs who need firmness to keep their hips elevated
Hot sleepers looking for cooling memory foam at an affordable price
Budget-conscious shoppers who still want a durable, fiberglass-free, made-in-the-USA mattress
Couples who value motion isolation
It may not be the best fit for:
Lightweight side sleepers who prefer softer contouring and need more pressure relief in the shoulder and hip areas
Sleepers over 250 lbs who may require a more robust mattress for long-term support
Layla Essential Mattress Prices & Discounts
Shipping and returns are free in the continental United States, with additional delivery fees to Hawaii, Alaska, and Canada.
Make sure to click the box above to claim the deepest discounts.
Pre-discounted prices (you should be able to score a pretty large discount throughout the year):
Twin
- 30"W x 80"L
- 29 lbs
Twin XL
- 38"W x 80"L
- 31 lbs
Full
- 54"W x 75"L
- 41 lbs
Queen
- 80"W x 60"L
- 49 lbs
King
- 76"W x 80"L
- 61 lbs
Cal. King
- 72"W x 84"L
- 61 lbs
Layla Essential Mattress
The Layla Essential mattress is a budget-friendly mattress that does not sacrifice quality, comfort, or safety. With its fiberglass-free construction, breathable cover, open-cell foams, and medium-firm support, it delivers a balanced sleep experience designed for back sleepers, stomach sleepers under 200 lbs, and even some heavier side sleepers.
Its washable, stain-resistant cover makes maintenance simple, while motion isolation and cooling features make it an appealing choice for couples and hot sleepers.
Although it may feel too firm for lightweight side sleepers or lack the extra support heavier individuals may need, the Layla Essential mattress stands out as an affordable, USA-made option that combines durability, comfort, and airflow in one streamlined design. If you are looking for a supportive, no-frills mattress at a great value, the Layla Essential mattress should move to the top of your list.
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FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
Layla sent us this Layla Essential Mattress for testing purposes. This review is not sponsored and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
No, but you have a 120 nights to try your Layla mattress at home and decide to return it if you are not fully satisfied.
All Layla mattresses are made in the USA.
Yes, Layla also offers a Memory Foam Mattress and Hybrid Mattress.
Yes, you can purchase pillows, bed bases, a wide assortment of bedding accessories, and even weighted blankets from the Layla website.
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Laura Georgieff
Laura is a mother of three who did not sleep through the night for the first 5.5 years of her kids' lives. She is passionate about sleep quality and loves sharing her experience and knowledge of all thing bedding! It is her mission to help you make the best decisions when it comes to sleep and help you get the best deal on the market!
What is the firmness level of the Layla Essential mattress?
The Layla Essential mattress is rated at about 7/10 firmness, making it medium-firm and ideal for back and stomach sleepers.
Is the Layla Essential mattress good for side sleepers?
The Layla Essential mattress can work for heavier side sleepers over 220 lbs, but lighter side sleepers may find it too firm.
Does the Layla Essential mattress sleep hot?
No, the Layla Essential mattress is designed with open-cell foams and a breathable hexagon cover to promote airflow and cooling.
Is the Layla Essential mattress fiberglass-free?
Yes, the Layla Essential mattress is completely fiberglass-free and made with CertiPUR-US certified foams for safety.
Who should buy the Layla Essential mattress?
The Layla Essential mattress is a great choice for back sleepers, stomach sleepers under 200 lbs, hot sleepers, and couples who need motion isolation.
