Sleep Number C2 Mattress Review – Is It An Expensive Air Mattress?

Written by

Ben Trapskin

I have carefully studied and evaluated many mattresses, sheets, pillows, duvet inserts, comforters, sleep gadgets, and adjustable beds for over a decade. My insights and evaluations are grounded in both my extensive personal experience and valuable customer feedback. I have expertise and knowledge of the industry. I have used this to conduct detailed assessments of products. My insights and guidance have given consumers the best sleep experience. I am committed to quality and excellence in this field. EXPERT TESTED Every product is tested with a variety methods to give you the best assement of what it will actually feel like and if it is good quality. UPDATED REGULARLY Our reviews are updated daily and we strive to produce the most useful content so you can make an informed decision.

The Sleep Number C2 Mattress is the most popular of the Sleep Number offerings. It is also the most affordable with a queen size coming in at about $1,200 after delivery. What makes Sleep Number unique among other mattresses is that it has a dual air chamber below the comfort layer of foam that can be adjusted for firmness by letting air in or out of the mattress. All of this is controlled by a quiet pump that is connected to each side so that one side can be firm and the other soft.

Overview of the Sleep Number C2 Mattress

Here’s a quick video overview of the mattress and my experience so far. This is a more complicated mattress than the typical 3 layer foam mattresses I have reviewed so I definitely want to take more time with it to make sure I cover everything.

Ordering Your Select Comfort C2 Mattress

You can order this mattress direct from their website. I opted to purchase the standalone remote which is an extra and the integrated base to ensure that the mattress was on a solid surface to ensure I get the full experience. In the picture above it is on a slatted bed. normally I would put this on a metal bed frame made for a box spring.

After placing my order I received an email to download their App to track my sleep and adjust the bed.

My mattress took about a couple weeks to arrive. You will receive a call to schedule a delivery day and then get a call the morning of delivery with a time window. On delivery day a branded truck arrived. I really like that this company has their own delivery staff and recognizable truck.

Sleep Number Delivery

The delivery staff also called when they were about 15 minutes away so I could prepare for their arrival. I can’t speak highly enough of the delivery staff who were super friendly, knowledgeable about the product and helpful.

My mattress arrived in two boxes. The smaller box contains the cover, fire sock and mechanical pieces and the other box is the comfort layer.

Sleep Number C2 Box

The delivery staff will set everything up and even haul away my old mattress if needed, this is all included in the $199 delivery fee. The first step was the integrated base below. This basically comes assembled and I highly recommend it because it keeps all the hoses hidden and ensures that the mattress is on a solid, even surface.

Sleep Number Base

Here’s the panel in the base where you can access the tubes.

sleep number tubes

The first step is to put the cover down then put the fire sock which is a fire retardant barrier over that.

sleep number cover

After that you put down the comfort layer. This is all done upside down so the top of the mattress is facing downwards this makes it easier to insert the air chambers then flip the mattress after its all put together.

The comfort layer also has foam around the sides so that you don’t feel the air chambers and have a bit better edge support.

comfort layer

Here’s another shot of the comfort layer as it takes shape.

comfort layer c2

After this then the fire sock gets wrapped around the comfort layer.

fire sock c2

Finally the cover then goes around the sides and gets ready for the air chamber to go inside.

c2 knit cover

How Much Does the Sleep Number C2 Cost?

Below are the current prices from their website. From what I have seen, Select Comfort will have sales throughout the year so keep an eye out for those sales which usually occur around minor holidays like President’s Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day and Black Friday.

Construction of the Sleep Number C2 360 Smart Bed

There isn’t a whole lot of information on the construction of this mattress but that’s probably because it isn’t made like a typical mattress.

My Sleep Number C2 Findings

You get a lot of variation with the firmness which is what makes this mattress so attractive to couples. Especially couples that have drastically different preferences. To illustrate how versatile this mattress is I put some bowling balls on the mattress. The left side is at 50 and the right side is at 100.

Sleep Number Sinkage

In the picture below I now put the left side at 5 which is the lowest setting and the right is at 100, the firmest setting.

Sleep Number C2 Firmness

There are two ways you can adjust the firmness the first is with a standard remote which you can purchase separately for $39

Sleep Number Remote

This mattress is great for isolating motion between you and your partner. The air chamber underneath is separate on each side so that you won’t feel your partner moving around. Below is a video that shows me bouncing a 14 lb. bowling ball on the left side of the mattress.

 

My Sleep Number C2 Recommendation

Sleep Number is a great choice if you have significantly different firmness preferences than your partner. The C2 is a great introduction to the brand because you get access to all their technology. People looking for a more plush feel should take a look at the other models such as the P5 or P6 which have 5 inches of comfort layers as opposed to the C2 which has 2 inches of the comfort layer.

This is a relatively expensive mattress but you do get quite a bit of technology though. I also think if you want to make it plusher, you could look at purchasing a memory foam topper on Amazon and add it to the mattress to make it softer. Since the more plush option such as the P6 is $2,599 for a queen size and the only difference I can tell is 3 more inches of foam.

This is still a preliminary review and I will be updating content as I have more time with the mattress.

Shop Sleep Number

How Long Will a Sleep Number Last?

Sleep Number mattresses are designed to last 15 years or more. This is due to the high-quality materials used in their construction, as well as their unique design. Sleep Number mattresses use air chambers to provide support, which can be adjusted to each individual’s sleep preferences. This helps to reduce pressure on the body and prevents the mattress from sagging over time.

However, it is important to note that the lifespan of a Sleep Number mattress will vary depending on a number of factors, including:

  • How often the mattress is used. Mattresses that are used every night will naturally wear out faster than those that are used less often.
  • How well the mattress is cared for. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help to extend the life of your mattress.
  • The weight and sleeping habits of the users. Heavier users and those who sleep in restless positions may put more wear and tear on their mattresses.

Here are some tips for extending the lifespan of your Sleep Number mattress:

  • Rotate your mattress every 3-6 months. This will help to distribute wear and tear evenly.
  • Use a mattress protector. This will help to keep your mattress clean and free of allergens.
  • Avoid jumping on or sitting on the edge of your mattress. This can damage the air chambers and shorten the life of your mattress.
  • Regularly clean your mattress. You can use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris.

If you notice any signs that your Sleep Number mattress is wearing out, such as sagging, lumps, or tears, it is time to replace it. A worn-out mattress can lead to poor sleep quality and other health problems.

Sleep Number Lumbar Support

Sleep Number mattresses are designed to provide adjustable support to the entire body, including the lumbar region. However, some people may still need additional lumbar support, especially if they have back pain.

There are a few ways to add lumbar support to a Sleep Number mattress:

  • Adjust the air pressure in the mattress. A firmer mattress will provide more lumbar support. You can adjust the air pressure in each side of the mattress independently, so you can find the perfect level of support for your back.
  • Use a lumbar pillow. A lumbar pillow can be placed behind your lower back to provide additional support. Sleep Number offers a variety of lumbar pillows, including the Rest & Read™ Pillow and the Bolster Pillow.
  • Use a mattress wedge. A mattress wedge can be placed under your hips and lower back to elevate them and reduce pressure on your spine. Sleep Number does not offer mattress wedges, but they are available from other retailers.

If you have back pain, it is important to talk to your doctor about the best way to support your back while you sleep. They may recommend a specific type of mattress or pillow, or they may suggest other treatments, such as physical therapy or medication.

Here are some additional tips for choosing the right lumbar support for your Sleep Number mattress:

  • Consider your sleeping position. If you sleep on your back, you will need a different type of lumbar support than if you sleep on your side or stomach.
  • Consider your body type. If you are petite, you may need a smaller lumbar pillow than if you are plus-size.
  • Consider your budget. Lumbar pillows and mattress wedges can range in price from affordable to expensive.

Sleep Number Sagging Issues

Sleep Number mattresses are designed to be resistant to sagging, but they can still sag over time. Here are some of the reasons why:

  • Wear and tear. Mattresses naturally wear out over time, especially if they are used every night. The air chambers in Sleep Number mattresses are also subject to wear and tear.
  • Overinflation. If you overinflate your Sleep Number mattress, it can put stress on the air chambers and lead to sagging.
  • Uneven weight distribution. If you sleep in the same position every night, it can put more wear and tear on that part of the mattress and lead to sagging.
  • Manufacturing defects. In rare cases, Sleep Number mattresses may have manufacturing defects that can lead to sagging.

If you notice that your Sleep Number mattress is sagging, there are a few things you can do:

  • Adjust the air pressure. If the mattress is sagging in the middle, try increasing the air pressure in that area.
  • Rotate the mattress. Rotating your mattress every 3-6 months will help to distribute wear and tear evenly.
  • Use a mattress protector. A mattress protector will help to keep your mattress clean and free of allergens, and it can also help to extend the life of your mattress.
  • Contact Sleep Number. If the mattress is still sagging after you have tried all of the above, you may need to contact Sleep Number for warranty service.

Here are some tips for preventing your Sleep Number mattress from sagging:

  • Avoid overinflation.
  • Rotate the mattress every 3-6 months.
  • Use a mattress protector.
  • Avoid jumping on or sitting on the edge of the mattress.
  • Replace the mattress when it is worn out.

How Much Do Sleep Number Mattresses Acutally Cost?

The real cost of a Sleep Number mattress will vary depending on the size and model of the mattress, as well as any additional accessories you purchase, such as a base, sheets, and pillows.

Sleep Number mattresses range in price from $999 for the Sleep Number 360® C2 Smart Bed to $5,099 for the Sleep Number 360® i10 Smart Bed. The average price of a Sleep Number mattress is around $3,500.

In addition to the cost of the mattress itself, you will also need to factor in the cost of a base. Sleep Number bases range in price from $499 to $1,999.

Sleep Number also offers a variety of accessories, such as sheets, pillows, and blankets. These accessories can range in price from $20 to $200 each.

Overall, the real cost of a Sleep Number mattress can range from $1,500 to $7,000 or more, depending on the size, model, and accessories you choose.

Here are some tips for getting the best deal on a Sleep Number mattress:

  • Shop during a sale. Sleep Number often has sales throughout the year, especially during holidays and major shopping events.
  • Consider buying a refurbished mattress. Sleep Number sells refurbished mattresses at a discounted price. These mattresses are inspected and certified by Sleep Number, and come with the same warranty as new mattresses.
  • Use a coupon or promo code. Sleep Number often offers coupons and promo codes to customers. You can find these coupons and promo codes online or in Sleep Number stores.

If you are on a budget, there are other mattress brands that offer similar features to Sleep Number mattresses at a lower price. However, it is important to do your research and compare different mattress brands before you make a purchase.

Sleep Number Weight Limit

The weight limit for a Sleep Number bed varies depending on the size and model of the bed. Here is a table of the weight limits for different Sleep Number beds:

Bed SizeWeight Limit (per side)
Twin400 lbs
Twin XL400 lbs
Full400 lbs
Queen600 lbs
King900 lbs
California King900 lbs

Sleep Number Replacement Parts

Sleep Number offers a variety of replacement parts for its beds, including:

  • Air chambers: Air chambers are the heart of Sleep Number beds. They are made of a durable material that is designed to last for many years, but they can eventually wear out or become punctured. If your air chamber is leaking or damaged, you can replace it with a new one from Sleep Number.
  • Remote controls: Sleep Number beds come with remote controls that allow you to adjust the air pressure in each side of the bed. If your remote control is lost or damaged, you can order a replacement from Sleep Number.
  • Power cords: Sleep Number beds require a power cord to operate. If your power cord is lost or damaged, you can order a replacement from Sleep Number.
  • Other accessories: Sleep Number also offers a variety of other replacement parts for its beds, such as mattress protectors, sheets, and pillows.

To order replacement parts for your Sleep Number bed, you can visit the Sleep Number website or call Sleep Number customer service.

Here are some tips for replacing parts on your Sleep Number bed:

  • Always follow the instructions that come with the replacement part.
  • If you are unsure how to replace a part, contact Sleep Number customer service for assistance.
  • Be careful not to damage any other parts of your bed when replacing a part.

Sleep Number also offers a warranty on its beds and replacement parts. If your bed or replacement part is defective, you may be able to get a replacement or repair under the warranty.

Sleep Number Complaints

 

Sleep Number has faced a number of complaints and lawsuits over the years. Some of the most common complaints include:

  • Sagging mattresses: Sleep Number mattresses have been known to sag over time, especially in the middle. This can be caused by a number of factors, including wear and tear, overinflation, and uneven weight distribution.
  • Air chamber leaks: Air chambers are the heart of Sleep Number beds, and they can eventually leak or become punctured. This can cause the mattress to lose air and become uncomfortable.
  • Remote control problems: Sleep Number remote controls have been known to malfunction, making it difficult to adjust the air pressure in the mattress.
  • Customer service issues: Some customers have complained about poor customer service from Sleep Number, especially when it comes to resolving warranty claims.

In addition to these complaints, Sleep Number has also been involved in a number of lawsuits. Some of the most notable lawsuits include:

  • A 2018 class action lawsuit alleged that Sleep Number mattresses were defective and prone to sagging. The lawsuit was eventually settled for $12 million.
  • A 2020 lawsuit alleged that Sleep Number was misleading customers about the benefits of its mattresses. The lawsuit is still ongoing.