Helix Plus Mattress Review
Is the Helix Plus Mattress for You?
Who’s Going to Love the Helix Plus Mattress
- Those with heavyweight (> 230 lbs) body types
- Back sleepers
- Stomach sleepers
- Hot sleepers
Who Should Steer Clear of the Helix Plus Mattress
- Side sleepers under 230 lbs—instead, the Puffy mattress offers better cushioning and pressure relief for lightweight and average-weight side sleepers.
- Very light sleepers concerned about motion transfer—instead, the GhostBed Flex mattress has a similar hybrid build with better motion isolation.
- Combination sleepers—instead, the Saatva HD mattress has the same level of support for heavier sleepers, plus excellent responsiveness.
This mattress is no longer available for purchase. To help you find your next mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses available on the market now.
Helix Video Review
Compare the Helix Plus to the other standard Helix models in this video roundup, hosted by our sleep science coach Adrianne.
Helix Plus Mattress Firmness and Feel
Helix Plus Mattress Firmness
We rated the Helix Plus 7.5/10 on the 1–10 firmness scale, making it a medium-firm to firm mattress. The feel will change a bit depending on your body type; for instance, it’ll feel a bit softer to heavier sleepers than lightweight sleepers, since more body weight causes the comfort layers to compress.
What Does the Helix Plus Mattress Feel Like?
The Helix Plus’s combination of foam and coils gives the bed a firm, supportive feel that’s perfect for heavier sleepers and those who like a denser feel. The coil layer gives the Plus its bounce, while the top foam layers provide light contouring around sensitive parts of the body like the hips and shoulders.
Most folks will feel like they’re sleeping “on” the mattress but will still experience some body contouring thanks to the memory foam layers.
What Sleeping Position Is Helix Plus Mattress Best For?
| Body Type: | BACK SLEEPERS | STOMACH SLEEPERS | SIDE SLEEPERS |
| Lightweight (< 130 lbs): | 4 | 4 | 2 |
| Average-weight (130–230 lbs): | 5 | 4 | 3 |
| Heavyweight (> 230 lbs): | 5 | 5 | 4 |
1 = Very poor, 2 = Not good, 3 = Fair, 4 = Good, 5 = Excellent
Side Sleepers
We don’t consider the Helix Plus to be the best mattress for side sleepers under 230 lbs. The comfort layers are a bit too dense for lightweight and average-weight folks to compress, which limits the pressure relief they’ll experience. On the other hand, heavyweight side sleepers should get decent cushioning around their pressure points.
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers need a firm mattress to keep their spine aligned while they sleep. If a mattress is too soft, the hips and shoulders will sink down and change the natural shape of the spine, potentially causing back pain.
The hips and shoulders of average-weight and heavyweight back sleepers should remain elevated on the Helix Plus, thanks to the firm layers of foam and the taller-than-average coils. The lower back and legs will also receive some contouring from the comfort foams.
Lightweight back sleepers might find this mattress too firm for comfort, but if you’re looking for a sturdy and supportive-feeling bed, it’s a good option.
Looking for more options? Check out our list of the best mattresses for back sleepers.
Stomach Sleepers
Similar to back sleepers, stomach sleepers require a firm mattress that prevents the hips from sinking. The Helix Plus does this well, since the coils keep the hips lifted in line with the shoulders and distribute body weight evenly.
Whether you’re a lightweight, average-weight, or heavyweight stomach sleeper, the Helix Plus should keep you elevated and comfortable as you sleep. For more supportive options, see the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
Combination Sleepers
The light bounce of the Helix Plus makes it a good mattress for combination sleepers who don’t like to feel stuck while they move around and change positions throughout the night.
Average-weight and heavyweight combination sleepers should feel comfortable in any position on this mattress, but lightweight combination sleepers should consider choosing a different mattress if they spend a lot of time sleeping on their side.
Helix Plus Mattress Performance
Is The Helix Plus Mattress Cooling?
The Helix Plus has cooling components in its cover, foam layers, and coil layers, making it especially appealing for larger sleepers who tend to overheat at night. The cover is made from a specially designed material that wicks away excess heat and moisture, and the top layer of comfort foam is made with latex, which is more breathable than traditional memory foam.
Finally, the coils increase airflow, preventing your body heat from building up in the mattress. Overall, the Helix Plus is intentionally designed to make life better for super-hot sleepers, and we think it achieves that goal.
See More: Best Cooling Mattresses
Edge Support
Our testers at Mattress Nerd found that, despite the excellent support in the center of the mattress, the edges did not offer the same support. One of our lightweight testers reported that the edges collapsed slightly under her weight, which is likely to be an even bigger problem for heavyweight sleepers.
This shouldn’t matter much to you if you sleep in the middle of the mattress and rarely sit along the edges, but keep this in mind if you like to stretch out or sit on the sides of your bed. Check out our edge support page for more info.
Responsiveness
Responsiveness is a measure of how quickly the mattress responds to your movement. If you want a mattress that’s easy to move around on, responsiveness is a key component to look for.
Unfortunately, our team of testers did not find the Helix Plus to be very responsive. In fact, one member of our team said it was surprisingly difficult to move around on. If you tend to toss and turn and want easy mobility, this may not be the mattress for you.
Motion Isolation: Is it good for those who share a bed?
The best mattresses for couples are ones that prevent motion from transferring from one side of the bed to the other. That way, if one person tosses and turns, the other person won’t be disrupted. When we tested the Helix Plus, we found that there was some motion transfer from one side to the other.
We expect some motion transfer from a bed with coils, so unless you’re super sensitive to movement, you shouldn’t be too bothered by movement on this bed. It’s also worth noting that the Helix Plus mattress was crafted to suit heavyweight sleepers and larger couples—up to 500 lbs per side.
Noise
The Plus is a fairly quiet mattress. You may notice a very subtle sound with movement from air moving through the coils, but it was hardly noticeable.
Pain Relief
The most common forms of pain that sleepers complain about are back and joint pain. The best mattresses for back pain are supportive enough to keep the sleeper’s spine aligned. Those with joint pain or issues like arthritis need a bed that cushions pressure points.
The Helix Plus is a firmer mattress, so it shouldn’t cause lower back pain for back or stomach sleepers. It’s not quite cushioning enough for those with joint pain or side sleepers with sensitive shoulders or hips.
Sex
With springy coils and a breathable construction, we consider the Helix Plus to be a good mattress for sex. Our only qualm is that it’s not easy to change positions on this bed, which may inhibit some couples.
Off-Gassing
We didn’t notice much off-gassing (i.e. new mattress smell) when we unboxed our Helix Plus mattress. The odor occurs when foams expand after being compressed, but it’s temporary and non-toxic. For more info, check out our article on mattress off-gassing.
Durability
Hybrid mattresses typically last around seven to eight years, and Helix warrants the Plus mattress for 15 years if it develops impressions deeper than one inch.
Helix Plus Construction
The Helix Plus is a 13” hybrid mattress made with layers of foam and pocketed coils. Its design takes into consideration universal needs as well as needs unique to heavy sleepers, such as adequate support.
Layer #1 TENCEL Mattress Cover: The Helix Plus mattress comes with a breathable TENCEL fabric cover that feels sleek and smooth to the touch. TENCEL is known for its moisture-wicking properties, which is great for hot sleepers.
Layer #2 Ultra Dense Responsive Foam: The bed’s top comfort layer contains a responsive foam that makes moving along the surface easy. This layer also helps keep your spine in a neutral alignment.
Layer #3 Helix Dynamic Foam: Helix Dynamic Foam is a latex-foam hybrid that’s dense and contouring like Memory Plus Foam, but more buoyant and responsive.
Layer #4 Firm Memory Foam: Beneath the comfort layers is a transition layer of firm memory foam, which provides the spinal support heavy sleepers need.
Layer #5 “TitanCore” Steel Coils: The support layer of the mattress contains hundreds of individually wrapped, extra-tall coils that are reinforced around the perimeter to improve edge support.
Layer #6 DuraDense Foam: The base layer of the mattress is made of high-density foam, which enhances support and increases the durability of the entire bed, while also providing a stable surface for the pocketed coils.
How Much Does the Helix Plus Mattress Cost?
| Mattress Size | Price | Dimensions | Height | Weight |
| Twin | $812 | 39” x 75” | 13” | 53 lbs |
| Twin XL | $937 | 39” x 80” | 13” | 56 lbs |
| Full | $1,062 | 54” x 75” | 13” | 71 lbs |
| Queen | $1,499 | 60” x 80” | 13” | 84 lbs |
| King | $1,812 | 76” x 80” | 13” | 103 lbs |
| California King | $1,812 | 72” x 84” | 13” | 103 lbs |
Check out our Helix mattress coupons for exclusive deals and discounts. If you’re shopping on a budget, check out the best mattresses under $500.
How Do the Policies Measure Up?
Shipping & Unboxing
Helix offers free shipping for customers in all 50 states. The Helix Plus is shipped vacuum-packed in a box via FedEx, and most shoppers receive their order within 10 business days of purchase. Helix does not offer white glove delivery or old mattress removal at this time.
When our Mattress Nerd team unboxed this mattress, we had a relatively easy experience. The bed expanded in less than three minutes and had very minimal off-gassing scent (the smell that sometimes ensues when memory foam suddenly expands).
Warranty
The Helix Plus is backed by a 15-year warranty, which covers defects in the mattress such as deep indentations and split or cracked foam. The Helix warranty’s coverage is contingent upon the mattress having proper foundational support, which Helix defines as a solid, firm surface. Sagging and indentations from normal wear and tear are not covered, and the warranty is non-transferable.
Trial Period & Returns
The Helix Plus comes with a 100-night sleep trial. The sleep trial policy includes a 30-night break-in period, which means you won’t be able to return or exchange the mattress until you’ve slept on it for 30 nights.
Here at Mattress Nerd, we’re big fans of policies like this because it can take some time for the body to adjust to a new bed. If you’re still not satisfied with the mattress after the 30-night period, you may return it for a full refund. The returned bed will be recycled or donated to charity.
Addressing Helix Plus Mattress Complaints
Not Supportive Enough
The majority of complaints about the Helix Plus mattress emphasized a lack of support and a softer feel than anticipated. We consider the Plus to be a firm mattress, but barely so—it teeters on the edge of medium-firm. If you decide the Plus isn’t supportive enough after 30 nights, you can exchange it for a firmer Helix model or return it for a full refund during the trial period.
Sagging
A few customers said that their Helix Plus sagged over time, particularly in the middle. The 15-year Helix Plus mattress warranty covers indentations over 1”, so you may be eligible for free repairs or a replacement mattress if that’s the case with your bed. Also, make sure that you’re using a supportive enough bed frame. Platform bases are best for heavier mattresses.
Sleeps Warm
We saw a couple of comments about the Helix Plus retaining body heat. We didn’t overheat on the Plus, but acknowledge that there’s a potential for heat retention in the memory foam comfort layers. If you’re overheating on the Plus, you can return it during the trial period or try lowering the temperature in your bedroom. Many experts recommend a sleeping temperature between 62–68 degrees.
Comparing Different Helix Mattresses
Helix Plus vs. Helix Sunset
| Helix Plus Mattress is Best For: | Helix Sunset Mattress is Best For: |
| Back and Stomach Sleepers | Sleepers Looking for a Softer Mattress |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | People Seeking Pressure Relief |
| Hot Sleepers | Back and Side Sleepers |
The Helix Sunset is the softest Helix hybrid mattress, and is best for side sleepers and those with lightweight body types. If you sleep on your back or stomach, you’ll likely find the Sunset to be too soft for your liking.
In contrast, the Helix Plus is very firm and built primarily for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and those with heavyweight body types. The Sunset costs less than the Plus, so it’s better for those shopping on a budget, although it has a shorter warranty period (10 years vs. 15 years).
Read our full Helix Sunset Mattress Review for a closer look.
Helix Plus vs. Helix Midnight
| Helix Plus Mattress is Best For: | Helix Midnight Mattress is Best For: |
| Back and Stomach Sleepers | Sleepers Looking for a Hybrid Mattress |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | Shoppers Looking for a Responsive Mattress |
| Hot Sleepers | Average-weight Sleepers who Toss and Turn |
The Helix Midnight is a hybrid mattress with a balanced, medium-firm feel that supports and contours to your body. It provides excellent temperature regulation, quick responsiveness, and strong edge support. The Helix Plus comes with extra comfort layers that support more weight, but it’s not as responsive and doesn’t have the best edge support.
If you’re an average-weight sleeper who tosses and turns, then the Helix Midnight may be better for you, but if you’re a heavyweight sleeper who stays primarily in one position, then the Helix Plus will probably be more comfortable. The Midnight is lower cost than the Plus, but it has a 10-year warranty instead of a 15-year warranty.
Read our full Helix Midnight Mattress Review for a closer look.
Helix Plus vs. Helix Twilight
| Helix Plus Mattress is Best For: | Helix Twilight Mattress is Best For: |
| Back and Stomach Sleepers | Sleepers Looking for a Firmer Mattress |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | People Seeking Pressure Relief |
| Hot Sleepers | Back and Stomach Sleepers |
The Helix Twilight is a firm hybrid mattress that’s ideal for people coping with chronic back pain who need extra support. The Helix Plus also offers great spine alignment, but primarily for heavyweight sleepers.
The Helix Plus is a bit better for those seeking pressure relief, though it’s also geared toward back and stomach sleepers. Pricewise, the Twilight is more affordable than the Plus, unless you opt for the Twilight Luxe.
Read our full Helix Twilight Mattress Review for a closer look.
Comparing Helix to the Competition
Helix Plus vs. Big Fig
| Helix Plus Mattress is Best For: | Helix Sunset Mattress is Best For: |
| Back and Stomach Sleepers | Shoppers Looking for a Supportive but not Firm Mattress |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | People Seeking Great Temperature Regulation |
| Hot Sleepers | Sleepers Wanting a Slightly Softer Mattress |
Some heavyweight sleepers need extra support from their mattress but don’t want an extra firm mattress. If you’re in that category, the Big Fig may be a better option for you when compared to the Helix Plus.
Both mattresses offer excellent cooling properties and a delicate combination of support and comfort for bigger body types, but the Big Fig is slightly softer, with a medium-firm feel instead of a firm feel. It’s certainly more expensive than the Helix Plus, but could be great if you’re a larger side sleeper who needs cradling support for the hips and shoulders.
See our full Big Fig Mattress Review to learn more.
Helix Plus vs. Brooklyn Bedding Titan
| Helix Plus Mattress is Best For: | Brooklyn Bedding Titan Mattress is Best For: |
| Back and Stomach Sleepers | Sleepers Looking for a Responsive Mattress |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | People who Toss and Turn |
| Hot Sleepers | Combination Sleepers |
The Helix Plus and the Brooklyn Bedding Titan were both designed with heavyweight sleepers in mind, but they have very different strengths. The Titan offers excellent responsiveness, meaning it’s great for combination sleepers who tend to change position throughout the night.
The Helix Plus, on the other hand, doesn’t have great responsiveness and won’t allow sleepers to maneuver around easily atop the bed. Still, it offers better pressure relief and edge support when compared to the Titan.
See our full Helix vs. Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Review to learn more.
Helix Plus vs. WinkBed
| Helix Plus Mattress is Best For: | WinkBed Mattress is Best For: |
| Back and Stomach Sleepers | Sleepers Looking for a Responsive Mattress |
| Couples | People Seeking Pressure Relief |
| Hot Sleepers | Heavyweight Sleepers |
While the Helix Plus mattress is designed for heavyweight individuals or couples, the WinkBed is much better for single sleepers. It allows more motion transfer than the Helix Plus, which means you could be awoken more easily by a shifting partner if you choose the WinkBed.
However, the WinkBed is far more responsive and offers solid edge support, so you don’t have to worry about rolling off the edge of the bed in the middle of the night. Overall, both of these beds are high-quality and built to accommodate larger bodies.
See our full Helix vs. WinkBed Mattress Review to learn more.
Still Undecided? Check out these other Helix comparisons and reviews:
FAQs
Is Helix Sleep a good mattress company?
Yes! Helix Sleep is a bed-in-a-box mattress company that produces beds for all kinds of sleeping positions and body shapes. They make their mattresses in the USA and use high grade materials like CertiPUR-US foams. Plus, they offer free shipping, 100-night sleep trials, and 10–15 mattress warranties.
Does the Helix Plus mattress have a weight limit?
A Queen-size Helix mattress can support up to 1,000 lbs of combined weight and up to 500 lbs for individual sleepers. A Twin size can support up to 450 lbs. Helix's team verified these weight limits with successful testing, so you can sleep soundly knowing you're well-supported.
Does the Helix Plus mattress sag?
Unless your mattress is defective, it shouldn't sag or develop permanent impressions deeper than 1". Helix highly recommends a strong support system—such as their own Helix foundation—as the best option for preventing sagging. Other options include adjustable bases or bed frames with thick slats no more than 3" apart.
What’s the Bottom Line?
The Helix Plus is a comfortable, supportive mattress for those with larger body types. The thoughtfulness of its design ensures that it remains durable and comfortable for heavier weight and plus size sleepers in the long term.
While it doesn’t earn high marks in responsiveness or edge support, the mattress isolates motion well and helps with temperature control. All in all, this is a wise and relatively affordable choice for heavyweight folks who want to enjoy their mattress while ensuring it adequately supports their weight.
The Nerd’s Scores for the Helix Plus Mattress
| Performance Factor | Out of 5 |
| Motion Isolation | 4 |
| Pressure Relief | 3.5 |
| Ease of Movement | 3.5 |
| Edge Support | 3.5 |
| Temperature Control | 4 |
| Durability | 4.5 |
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