Saatva vs Nectar US: Construction Summary
The Nectar Ultra Hybrid is 15 inches thick and has six layers. It combines springs with different types of foams. The Saatva Classic Mattress has five layers and two height options (11.5 inches or 14.5 inches), depending on the look you want. The innerspring hybrid combines two coil layers with memory foam. Here is more about how the layers differ between these two mattresses.

Comparing Mattress Layers: Saatva vs Nectar
Understanding the layers in each mattress can help narrow down which fits what you’re looking for, beginning with the top covers.
Covers
The Classic Mattress has a contouring 3-inch Euro pillow top with Saatva’s own Lumbar Zone® Quilting for extra support in the center third of the mattress. The breathable organic cotton cover is treated with a proprietary Guardin™ botanical treatment, protecting against bacteria, mold, and mildew growth.
Nectar’s soft top cover also has antimicrobial treatment. It is not labeled as hypoallergenic, while Saatva’s cover is. Nectar uses poly-blend fabric with cooling polyethylene fibers for a cool-to-the-touch sleep surface and has a bottom fabric cover.
Comfort Layers
Nectar has a cushioning 4-inch layer of memory foam with a top sheet of phase change material for temperature regulation. The Saatva Classic Mattress also cushions for pressure relief and wicks heat from the sleep surface with a combination of gel-infused memory foam crown and layer of Lumbar Zone® individually wrapped coils. The durable 14.5-gauge coils are made from recycled steel.
Zoned Support
Both mattresses offer zoned support. Saatva has a patented Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire to promote proper spinal alignment in the middle of the mattress. Enhancing the Classic Mattress’s chiropractor-approved back support is its second coil layer, made of 13-gauge tempered steel. High-density foam rails strengthen edge support to maximize sleep surface.
Nectar has a layer of support foam with three ergonomic zones for support in the back, hips, and shoulders while encouraging healthy spinal alignment. A layer of individually wrapped innerspring coils below it enhances support, and a foundation layer provides a solid mattress foundation.
How Do Sizes Compare?
The two mattresses come in several US standard sizes. Saatva’s Classic Mattress comes in one additional size to Nectar, which is split Cal king:
- Twin
- Twin XL
- Full
- Queen
- King/Split
- Cal King/Split
Choose from two heights for the luxurious Classic Mattress, depending on the look you prefer: 11.5-inch or 14.5-inch. The exception is split Cal king, which is only available in 11.5 inches. The heights have the same feel and durability, per the Saatva US site.
Comparing Mattress Feel
Both mattresses offer a luxurious sleep surface. Nectar does so with thick memory foam and a soft cover, while the Saatva Classic Mattress has a plush Euro pillow top available in three comfort levels, depending on the feel you prefer.
On its US website, Saatva assigns each comfort level a number based on the standard mattress firmness scale (1-10), whereby 1 is the softest, and 10 is the firmest. The Classic Mattress comes in:
- Plush Soft (3) – Contouring the body, the softest of the three options suits many side sleepers and lighter-weight individuals.
- Luxury Firm (5-7) – A medium to medium-firm range, which many back sleepers prefer, as do certain side, stomach, and combination sleepers. Couples may find this range accommodates different firmness preferences and sleep styles.
- Firm (8) – Some stomach, back, and plus-size sleepers find a firm mattress the most comfortable and supportive.
We like that Saatva offers three firmness options to meet the needs of various sleep styles and body types. Nectar’s Ultra Hybrid is medium-firm only, with a 6.5 on the firmness mattress scale. Many average-weight back, side, stomach, and combination sleepers like medium-firm, although some lightweight individuals prefer a softer mattress. Some plus-size people want greater support with a firmer mattress.

Saatva vs Nectar: Pros and Any Limitations
Custom Comfort and Look
Saatva offers a luxurious sleep experience with a customizable firmness level and height. Choose from three comfort options, depending on what you typically find most comfortable, and two heights, based on what look you want in the bedroom. Nectar’s mattress is medium-firm and 15 inches thick, without firmness or height options.
Personalized Support
Both mattresses offer custom support, helping with pressure relief. That can reduce discomfort in sensitive areas, potentially leading to better sleep. For example, Nectar’s support foam layer has three ergonomic zones for back, shoulder, and hip support. Added support in these heavier areas encourages the spine to stay in a neutral position.
Both mattresses have individually wrapped coils that respond independently to the body’s movements to provide targeted support and encourage proper spinal alignment. Saatva’s Classic Mattress goes a step further with proprietary Lumbar Zone® Technology. Being stronger and firmer in the center third of the mattress, where most of the body weight lies, encourages healthy spinal alignment and offers some sleepers relief from an achy back.
Sleepers with Back Pain
While we cannot guarantee results, those with back pain may find it reassuring that the Saatva Classic has chiropractor-approved back support. The premium mattress is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) following strict testing for spinal support. It also has a Congress of Chiropractic State Association Seal of Approval, meaning it is endorsed by a group of licensed chiropractors who provide guidance on chiropractic principles.
Nectar’s Ultra Hybrid does not have the same endorsements, although its zoned support promotes healthy spinal alignment. The contouring qualities of both mattresses may reduce lower back strain, potentially preventing morning stiffness. For chronic back pain, see a doctor for treatment; we are not medical experts, and this article is not medical advice.
Edge Support
Both mattresses offer strong edges for more usable sleep surface. This feature also can improve the ease of getting in and out of bed and help a mattress keep its shape over time, potentially extending its lifespan. Saatva uses high-density foam rails for firmer edge support, while Nectar’s enhanced edge stability comes from its innerspring coils.
Cooling and Breathable
A cool, breathable mattress helps some hot sleepers have a more refreshing sleep rather than waking up in sweat. Nectar’s cooling features include its cool-to-the-touch top cover and the sheet of phase change material for temperature regulation.
Individually wrapped innerspring coils in both mattresses encourage airflow. The Saatva Classic has a second coil layer for added breathability and durability, and the cover is naturally breathable.
USA Made
American craftsmanship is important to some people. Saatva mattresses are made in the USA. Nectar US manufactures some mattresses in the United States, while others are produced overseas. Both brands source some premium materials from other countries. Saatva mattresses are built to order rather than pre-made, showing attention to detail, customization, and quality.
Does the Saatva Classic Mattress sound like a good fit for you? See what else buyers have to say.
See Buyer Reviews
Motion Transfer
Couples often look for a mattress that minimizes motion transfer to reduce the chances of feeling their partner toss and turn. Individually wrapped innerspring coils, which both mattresses have, are known for superior motion control. If you have a sleep partner, this feature may help you have an undisturbed sleep.
Safety Certifications
Both mattresses use CertiPUR-US® certified foams. This highly regarded certification means the polyurethane foams are produced without ozone depleters, formaldehyde, phthalates, certain flame retardants, such as TCEP, and heavy metals like mercury and lead. The foams also have low VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making them less likely to emit a slight odor (off-gassing).
Saatva’s Classic Mattress is also GREENGUARD® Gold certified, meaning it has been rigorously tested for low chemical emissions. Households with seniors, kids, and individuals with respiratory issues may look for a mattress with one or both certifications.
Saatva vs Nectar: Value, Sleep Trial, and Warranty Comparisons
Mattress Value
Both mattresses are reasonably priced for the premium materials used and features. Increasing the value of Saatva mattresses like the Classic is the company’s free white glove delivery across the continental US. The Saatva delivery team sets the mattress up in your chosen room and, with some exceptions, takes away your old mattress and foundation for free. Saatva does not ship directly to Alaska or Hawaii but can help coordinate delivery through a freight forwarder.
Nectar ships to the contiguous US, with a fee to Hawaii and Alaska. White glove delivery is available as an extra add-on for those who want the new mattress to be set up and the old mattress removed.
Sleep Trial
Saatva and Nectar include 365-night home trials with mattresses, going well beyond the industry standard. Being able to sleep on the mattress for this long gives you plenty of time to decide if it meets your needs, with the option to return it for a full refund in the rare instance you decide it is not right for you within this period. Saatva has a $99 processing fee for the pickup, while returns are free within the contiguous US for Nectar mattresses.
Warranty
The two mattresses have impressively long warranties. The Forever Warranty™ that Nectar includes with its mattress applies to the original purchaser for the full period of ownership and use and covers specific defects. Saatva’s Classic Mattress has a lifetime warranty covering defects in workmanship and materials for as long as you, the original purchaser, own it. Reading a warranty policy for repair and replacement details and other important information can help you better understand what to expect.
Conclusion: Saatva vs Nectar Mattress Comparison
This comparison reveals that both mattresses have premium features and top-quality materials, offering pressure relief and motion isolation. Still, differences in materials, customizability, and certifications can make a meaningful impact, depending on what you value most.
Saatva’s Classic stands out for its multiple firmness levels and height options, chiropractor-endorsed back support, and additional certifications like GREENGUARD® Gold. There also is a lengthy sleep trial and manufacturer’s warranty.
Plus, the luxury mattress is built-to-order, American-made, and includes white glove delivery across the continental US. In our opinion, these impressive features help the Saatva Classic Mattress better meet individual sleep needs and accommodate a range of sleep styles and body types.