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The Best Mattresses for Heavy People 2024

These mattresses are designed to properly support people over 250 pounds.

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Whether you prefer a soft mattress, a firm mattress or something in between, you deserve a good night's rest. But for users over 250 pounds, the average mattress may not cut it: Many mattresses have a weight limit of 250 pounds per person, so the wrong option can potentially do more harm than good. To make sure you invest in a bed that's both comfortable and supportive, you'll want to do your research. That's why, at the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we've worked with hundreds of consumer testers (including those over 250 pounds) and surveyed more than 10,000 people to find what makes the best mattress for heavy people.

What's the best mattress for most heavy people? Our top-tested mattress for heavy body weights is the Saatva HD Mattress. It's received excellent feedback from real users in our surveys and comes with full-service setup at no additional cost.

When it comes to firmness level, medical experts have told us that those with heavier body types are best suited to firmer beds over soft options, but some (especially side sleepers) may struggle to feel comfortable on a too firm bed that won't cushion their pressure points. Thankfully, many mattresses are specifically designed to support higher body weights and won't immediately sag under pressure. Here are our top-tested picks with prices listed for Queen sizes.

    1
    Best Overall

    Saatva HD Mattress

    HD Mattress
    Now 15% Off
    $2,801 at Saatva
    Credit: Saatva
    Pros
    • Excellent edge support
    • Year-long trial period
    • White-glove delivery
    Cons
    • May be too firm for some side sleepers

    While most mattresses you’ll find online come compressed in a box, Saatva provides complimentary white-glove delivery with a generous year-long sleep trial. Its quality mattresses and notable customer service has earned high praise from our panelists, and its Classic Mattress is one of the best we've tested.

    This model is specifically designed for users weighing up to 500 pounds: It uses resilient latex plus foam on top of heavy-duty steel coils for support that doesn't compromise on comfort. It also has excellent edge support.

    Who it’s best for: Users who like the feel of a traditional mattress and prefer full-service delivery and mattress removal.

    Tester notes: Our panel members who own the HD describe the bed as “well-made” and “comfortable.” One even noted that it held up much better than other beds she tried, staying firm without losing its shape. Though some side sleepers may find it to be too firm.

    Another owner complimented the seamless purchasing process and product performance. She shared that she and her partner were “very pleased with the entire [Saatva] experience.”

    Take note that the bed is on the taller side, meaning you may need deep-pocket sheets, and if you choose to return it, there’s a $99 pickup fee.

    RELATED: Saatva Classic Mattress Review: A Luxury Bed With Exceptional Value

    Height15.5’’
    Firmness levelsFirm
    Weight limit500 lbs per side (1,000 lbs total)
    SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King
    MaterialsLatex, foam and coils (hybrid)
    Trial period1 year, with a $99 return pick-up fee
    2
    Best Value

    Allswell The Brick Mattress

    The Brick Mattress
    Now 22% Off
    Credit: Walmart
    Pros
    • Firm, uniform feel
    • Dense foam and coils for extra support
    • Easy DIY setup
    Cons
    • May not work for those who need extra-firm support
    • Does not have the best edge support

    Allswell proves that you don’t need to sacrifice comfort and support when opting for a more affordable bed. Based on our evaluations, the brand offers an excellent value for its comparatively low cost. The Brick is Allswell's firmest mattress and it's a great option for larger sleepers and comes compressed in a box for self-setup.

    Who it’s best for: Price-conscious sleepers who need the support of a firmer bed but don't want to spend over $1,000. We’ve noticed that it’s more popular with younger adults who prefer to set up their own mattresses.

    Tester notes: For some, DIY mattress setup can feel daunting, but none of our testers reported issues while unboxing an Allswell mattress. The Brick specifically received top scores for its comfort and support, thanks to dense foam and coils for extra support.

    One tester, who previously slept on innerspring mattresses, told us she loved the firmness and uniform support of this model. Another shared, "it was exactly as firm as I expected it to be." The only wrinkle: Some of our reviewers noticed that the brand’s mattresses don't have the best edge support. It also may not work for those who need extra-firm support.

    Height12"
    Firmness levelsFirm
    Weight limit300 lbs per side (600 lbs total)
    SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
    MaterialsFoam and coils (hybrid)
    Trial period90 nights
    3
    Best Boxed

    Helix Plus

    Plus
    Now 20% Off
    Credit: Helix
    Pros
    • Specifically made for people with higher body weights
    • High comfort ratings from multiple testers
    • Easy DIY setup
    Cons
    • Not the best edge support

    The Helix Plus is specficially designed for heavier body types, and has earned top scores from our testers for how sturdy it felt right from the start. Not only does it have taller, thicker coils made to cradle your body without sinking in your weight, but its dense foam is designed to provide support and prevent sagging (one of the main culprits for aches and pains).

    Plus, Helix recently introduced the Helix Plus Luxe and Helix Plus Elite, which offer more layers for an upgraded feel.

    Who it’s best for: People who prefer DIY mattress setup and like the contouring feel of a hybrid mattress. Those who struggle with finding a bed that won’t bounce back.

    Tester notes: Several of our consumer testers described the bed as conforming yet bouncy. One told us, “It's contouring in the best way. [I] felt equal support between my neck, lower back and legs rather than a single area of focus.”

    Others complimented the sturdiness. “I never have any worry that I'm putting too much weight on it for it to permanently sink on one side,” said another tester. Still, our testers wished the edges were more supportive, but this is expected of a foam hybrid.

    Height13’’
    Firmness levelsMedium-firm
    Weight limit500 lbs per side (1,000 lbs total)
    SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
    MaterialsFoam and coils (hybrid)
    Trial period100 nights
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    4
    Best for Side Sleepers

    Brooklyn Bedding Titan Plus Luxe

    Titan Plus Luxe
    Pros
    • Softer than similar mattresses yet still supportive
    • Optional cover feels cool to the touch
    • Can support up to 1,000 lbs (entire bed)
    Cons
    • Users say edge support is lacking

    Heavier people typically require a firmer bed, yet those who sleep on their side need a softer surface to avoid stress on the pressure points. The Titan Plus Luxe is designed for larger bodies and the entire bed can support up to 1,000 pounds. It comes in a medium-firm level of firmness, providing necessary support with a more plush and indulgent feel for extra comfort. It stands at a substantial 13 inches and comes with a luxurious Euro-top, which sets it apart from the brand's standard Titan Plus mattress.

    Who it's best for: Plus-size side sleepers who find mattresses designed for their bodies too firm to sleep on.

    Tester notes: Our panelists gave Brooklyn Bedding's Titan line high scores for its supportive feel, but noted that the edges weren't the firmest and sunk in if they sat on the edge. That being said, side sleepers with larger bodies were impressed with how well the mattress conformed to their bodies. One even called it "by far the best mattress I’ve slept on in a long time."

    Others also described the optional cooling cover as "inviting" and noted it felt silky and cool to the touch, although they didn't notice a huge difference in their body temperature at night.

    Height13"
    Firmness levelsMedium firm
    Weight limit 500 lbs per side (1,000 lbs total)
    SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split California King
    MaterialsFoam and coils (hybrid)
    Trial period 120 nights
    5
    Best for Heavy Couples

    Big Fig The Big Fig Mattress

    The Big Fig Mattress
    Now 18% Off
    Credit: Big Fig
    Pros
    • Can support up to 550 lbs per person
    • Testers reported that it was cooler than other foam mattresses they'd used
    • Coils made with thicker steel to support more weight
    Cons
    • Less suitable for heavy and light couples

    Big Fig says this mattress is “designed for people with a bigger figure” and can support sleepers weighing up to 550 pounds, or couples weighing a total of 1,100 pounds. And its construction speaks for itself: The mattress has plenty of coils — 1,600 to be exact — that are made of thicker steel in addition to higher-density foam to support more weight without compromising on comfort.

    Who it's best for: Tall users or couples with heavy body weights in search of maximum support and noteworthy motion isolation.

    Tester notes: For one tester and their partner in particular, this mattress was a game-changer. "The Big Fig mattress is NOTHING like our previous mattress," she said. "It is just the right combination of soft, cozy, comfortable, contouring, supportive and firmness."

    Others also shared that they felt cooler while sleeping on this bed compared to other foam mattresses they've slept on and praised the motion isolation. But note that it's not the best choice for couples in which one person is heavy and the other is light: Another reviewer noted that their lighter partner felt it was too hard.

    Height13’’
    Firmness levelsFirm
    Weight limit550 lbs per side (1,100 lbs total)
    SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
    MaterialsLatex, foam and coils (hybrid)
    Trial period120 nights
    6
    Best for Heavy and Light Couples

    Naturepedic EOS Pillowtop Organic Mattress

    EOS Pillowtop Organic Mattress
    Credit: Naturepedic
    Pros
    • Can customize each side of the mattress
    • Provides good motion isolation
    • Earned high marks in our testing
    Cons
    • Expensive

    Shopping for a mattress is tough enough as it is, but finding the right mattress for a couple is even more taxing, especially if partners have different sleep positions, firmness preferences or body types. However, this mattress from Naturepedic stands up to the challenge, offering truly customized firmness for each side of a Queen, King or California King bed. You can swap out layers of latex and coils to find your ideal firmness level, making it great for couples with different weights and needs.

    Who it’s best for: Couples with different body weights who never agree on the same firmness level when mattress shopping, and shoppers who prefer to buy organic mattresses.

    Tester notes: While the cost is high, the results speak for themselves: Couples who’ve slept on the mattress loved the personalized comfort. Our reviewers also highlighted the motion isolation provided by the separate fills, and one tester told us she couldn’t feel her partner move at all at night.

    This model also earned high scores across the board from testers for its contouring feel around the shoulders and hips. The catch is that it can be cumbersome to set up: You’ll need to unbox each layer separately for assembly, but users found it well worth the effort.

    RELATED: The Best Mattresses for Couples, Tested by Experts

    Height15’’
    Firmness levelsFirm, cushion-firm, medium, plush, ultra-plush
    Weight limit550 lbs per side (1,100 lbs total)
    SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
    MaterialsWool, latex and coils (hybrid)
    Trial period90 nights
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    7
    Best for Back Pain

    Purple RestorePlus Hybrid Mattress

    RestorePlus Hybrid Mattress
    Credit: Purple
    Pros
    • Breathable grid provides great motion isolation
    • Pressure-relieving feel can help reduce back pain
    • Optional free in-home setup
    Cons
    • Delivery may take longer than expected

    Purple's mattresses offer a nice combination of firm and soft support that's well-loved by our tester panel. The brand’s GelFlex Grid, an elastic top layer, is one of a kind, conforming to the body without compromising on breathability. It routinely earns praise from both hot sleepers and those with chronic joint pain. The RestorePlus Hybrid features a 3-inch grid on top of foam and coils for much-needed support and additional motion isolation.

    Who it’s best for: Back pain sufferers, including those who sleep hot or suffer from night sweats, or anyone in search of a supportive, pressure-relieving mattress.

    Tester notes: If you’ve never lied on a Purple mattress, it’s hard to explain how it feels. One analyst who’s tried this new model described it as “springy, pressure-relieving and cradling but also airy,” and finds that it combines elements from latex, foam and innerspring models.

    Other users agreed, with one tester who highlighted how it cradled her pressure points without sinking under her weight. This particular model comes in two different firmness levels, although we recommend the firm option for more support.

    One thing to note: Our testers reported that delivery took longer than expected, especially if you opt for complimentary delivery and setup.

    Height13’’
    Firmness levelsSoft or Firm
    Weight limit375 lbs per side (750 lbs total)
    SizesTwin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
    MaterialsElastic GelFlex grid, foam and coils (hybrid)
    Trial period100 nights
    8
    Best Hybrid

    Emma Hybrid Comfort

    Hybrid Comfort
    Pros
    • Great motion isolation
    • Testers noted they didn't have to break in the mattress
    • Ergonomic layout for targeted support
    Cons
    • Lower weight limit than our other picks

    Emma Sleep is a brand that's widely known throughout Europe, and its newly released Hybrid Comfort is one to watch. It's the quintessential hybrid, combining layers of foam with supportive coils. In fact, the bed's coil base has an ergonomic layout with seven zones, which vary in firmness for targeted support and pressure relief. The caveat is that weight capacity is on the lower side with a maximum of 572 pounds or 286 pounds per side.

    Who it's best for: Users with large bodies (under 286 pounds) who want a classic hybrid that's designed for comfort and easy to set up.

    Testing notes: While it's on the newer side, having been released in 2023, we've received excellent feedback so far from our consumer testers. One tester who previously slept on an expensive luxury mattress commented, "This bed was just as comfortable, if not more comfortable." She also shared that it didn't require any breaking in. Another tester agreed, noting that it felt "very comfortable" and "supported [his] back."

    Height 11.5"
    Firmness levels Medium firm
    Weight limit 286 lbs per side (572 lbs total)
    Sizes Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
    MaterialsFoam and coils (hybrid)
    Trial period 1 year
    Pros
    • Can support up to 400 lbs per air chamber
    • Hundreds of users on our panel swear by it
    • Earned the Good Housekeeping Seal
    Cons
    • Pricey investment
    • $249 delivery fee and $199 return fee

    Sleep Number's adjustable mattresses allow you to easily control the firmness level for your most comfortable sleep. And for those whose body weight tends to fluctuate, you're able to easily alter the level of support on the p6. There are even biometric sensors embedded, so if you switch positions in the middle of the night, the mattress will automatically adjust to maintain your preferred firmness. The p6 can hold up to 400 pounds per air chamber or 600 pounds with the addition of the brand's adjustable base.

    Who it's best for: Users who struggle with mattress shopping, especially when it comes to firmness level, and large sleepers who find their body weight fluctuates.

    Tester notes: The p6 has received top praise from hundreds of users on our panel who swear it was worth the investment. In addition to its comfort and impact on sleep quality, users appreciated being able to select the exact level of firmness they need.

    Many owners told us they wouldn't be able to go back to a non-adjustable mattress, and some told us they waited too long to make the splurge. Plus, it's even earned the Good Housekeeping Seal after extensive vetting by our Lab experts. Keep in mind: On top of the high price tag, there's a $249 delivery fee and then a $199 return fee if you decide you don't want to keep it.

    Height11’’
    Firmness levelsAdjustable
    Weight limit400 lbs per air chamber or 600 lbs per side with adjustable base
    SizesTwin XL, Queen, King, California King
    MaterialsAdjustable air chambers, biometric sensors and foam
    Trial period100 days for the mattress, minus the cost of return shipping or a $199 pick-up fee
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    10
    Best Organic Latex

    Avocado Green Mattress

    Green Mattress
    Credit: Avocado
    Pros
    • Firm mattress to support more weight
    • Uses certified organic materials
    • Real users gave it perfect scores for comfort
    Cons
    • Not specifically designed for heavy body types

    The Avocado Green Mattress proves that you don't need to skimp on quality or comfort when shopping for a sustainable option. It uses latex foam, which has a springy texture and contours to your body without compressing under it. Add to that temperature-regulating wool and durable coils, and you've got a super comfortable bed.

    It's also certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard and the Global Organic Latex Standard, meaning the entire manufacturing process is fully organic and abides by strict standards. Plus, the brand offers a generous 365-day trial period.

    Who it's best for: Eco-conscious consumers who prefer organic materials or anyone who enjoys the responsive, floating-like feel of latex over the cushioning feel of foam.

    Tester notes: The bed has earned top scores from our panelists, including one owner who called it “unbelievably comfortable.” Another user also shared that after years of chronic shoulder and back pain, they were shocked that since switching to this mattress, they hadn't experienced any pain at all.

    While not specifically built for heavier people, Avocado states that this mattress is a good choice for tall or large combination sleepers because of the ergonomic layers of coils and latex.

    Height11’’
    Firmness levelsGentle firm, Medium and Plush
    Weight limit350 lbs per side (700 lbs total)
    SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
    MaterialsWool, latex and coils (hybrid)
    Trial period1 year

    How we test the best mattresses for heavy people

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    The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab evaluates all sorts of mattresses by researching offerings from top brands, working with consumer testers to provide firsthand feedback on setup and sleep testing, surveying long-term users for in-depth feedback and analyzing data.

    During this process, we research all brands to ensure that they're trustworthy and that the mattress consumers receive meet the company's marketing claims. Next, our experts and panel of consumer testers try out mattresses at home. They record everything from initial opinions and ease of setup all the way through several weeks of sleeping on the mattress to gauge how it holds up over time. We also ask our testers to compare the mattress to their previous mattresses to gauge changes from mattress to mattress.

    For added insight into what makes the best bed for a specific sleeper, we routinely interview medical experts and survey our greater tester panel. In recent years, we've reviewed answers to over 170,000 questions from more than 10,000 users. Between expert evaluations, consumer testing and survey responses, here's a few key aspects we consider:

    ✔️ Ordering and delivery: Users tell us about the ease of the ordering process and report whether the mattress arrived quickly. They also let us know if there were any problems that arose and if those issues were resolved.

    ✔️ Setup: Survey respondents shared their opinion of the process — whether DIY or delivery service — and whether the mattress took proper shape in a reasonable amount of time.

    a consumer tester unrolls a compressed mattress
    Courtesy of Tester

    ✔️ Edge support: Reviewers sit on the edge of the bed to see if it dips under their weight or holds up, preventing them from sinking.

    ✔️ Firmness level: Testers give the mattress a firmness rating. This is important because sometimes what users feel in real life doesn't match the brand's claimed rating.

    ✔️ Comfort and support: Our testers comment on how much they liked sleeping on the mattress in the first few days as well as how they felt about sleeping on it over a longer period of time, noting the level of comfort and support over extended use.

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    two hands pressing against a memory foam mattress
    Jill Sollazzo

    ✔️ Temperature regulation: We ask reviewers to rate how comfortable their body temperature remained while sleeping on the mattress, even if the mattress makes no cooling claims.

    ✔️ Sleep quality: We ask for a final score on sleep quality and whether or not users wake up feeling sore. Our testers can also compare the mattress to previous mattresses they've slept on, and then give it an overall satisfaction score.

    ✔️ Additional feedback: Reviewers are free to note any specific likes, dislikes and additional comments they have about their experiences with the mattresses.

    preview for GH Buying Guide: Mattresses

    What type of mattress is best for heavy people?

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    It depends on what you find most comfortable and what keeps your body properly aligned. Amit Jain, M.D., M.B.A., Chief of Minimally-Invasive Spine Surgery and Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine noted that those with larger bodies "should avoid soft mattresses, as they may exacerbate their pain," but beyond that, there aren't any restrictions when it comes to the type of mattress.

    He said, "Patients should select mattresses that provide adequate support to their back. Memory foam vs. traditional is a matter of individual preference. Medically, one is not superior to the other,"

    That being said, hybrid mattresses are the most popular type on the market and make up a good portion of our list. They offer a good balance for most users since the coils provide support while the foam adds comfort. A mattress made entirely of memory foam will be plush as well, but because it lacks metal coils, it may not offer enough support for larger-framed sleepers. Those who prefer the feeling of laying flush on the bed rather than sinking in should opt for a firm or extra-firm mattress with little to no foam or a pillowtop.

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    Is an innerspring or memory foam mattress better for a heavy person?

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    It's not a hard-and-fast rule, but in general, innerspring mattresses usually last longer than memory foam models. Steel coils — the more commonly used term for springs — typically hold up better than foam with more time and use. Coils offer more support, while foam is better known for offering pressure-relieving comfort. While all mattresses come in different firmnesses, innerspring mattresses tend to run a bit firmer than memory foam.

    All of this said, individual comfort is key. There is no "best type of mattress" for anyone, which is why there are various types of mattresses in this round-up. Don't be deceived by what you're "supposed" to like. You really need to go with what feels best for you.

    What level of firmness is best for a mattress for heavy people?

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    In order to achieve the proper amount of support, a person with a larger frame should look for a firmer mattress. If the mattress is too soft and does not have enough support, the heavier weight can cause the mattress to compress too much, leading to spine misalignment and mattress drooping.

    But just because extra support is required doesn’t mean the mattress needs to be stiff. Try out a few to find the balance that works for your personal preferences and needs.

    Which mattress thickness is best for heavy people?

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    Mattresses for heavy people should be at least 11 inches tall; all of our picks fall in the 11-inch to 15.5-inch range. In general, the taller the mattress, the more layers it has so it can offer more support. Also, heavier weights will put more pressure on the mattress, so a thicker mattress can help prevent sagging over time. Note that a mattress above 15 inches may require deep pocket sheets.

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    What to look for when shopping for a mattress for heavy people

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    ✔️ Check the brand’s recommended weight range. Most standard mattresses are designed to support up to 250 pounds per side, so you’ll want to make sure the mattress can support your body properly and not sag over time.

    ✔️ Look for details like coil-gauge thickness, foam firmness or additional layers. Mattresses that are specifically designed for heavier people often have thicker coils, firmer foam or extra layers to provide more support and durability.

    ✔️ Don’t forget to factor in sleep position. Even though heavier people need more support, side sleepers may prefer a mattress that is medium-firm to eliminate pressure points while still keeping the spine aligned. Stomach sleepers should look for firmer beds with less padding, and combination sleepers should opt for something in between.

    ✔️ If you suffer from lower or upper back pain, choose a pressure-relieving mattress that still offers support, such as a hybrid of foam and coils. Medical experts also advise looking for medium firmness for a balance of cushioning and support.

    ✔️ Take advantage of mattress trial periods. Without actually sleeping on a mattress, it’s tough to know whether it’s a good fit or not. Luckily, most mattress companies offer a trial period of at least 90 to 100 nights — some on our list offer up to a year. Be sure to check whether there are any hidden return fees and how to go about making the return to avoid any headaches later on.

    ✔️ Seek out a mattress with cooling properties if you're a hot sleeper or deal with night sweats. Memory foam tends to sleep hot, so you're better off picking a mattress with coils for airflow or cooling technology like copper particles, gel or phase-change technology that's added to the foam.

    Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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    The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab has been evaluating bedding and home products for over a century. Since the online mattress industry's rapid expansion in 2014, our experts have actively researched and reviewed hundreds of models, surveyed thousands of our readers and analyzed countless data points to find the best mattresses available.

    Grace Wu is a textiles product review analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute and managed recent consumer mattress testing of over 150 different models (in the last year alone!). She's written several stories about various types of mattresses, including hybrid mattresses and latex mattresses, and has tried almost every type imaginable. Prior to joining GH, Wu earned a Master of Engineering in Materials Science & Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Fiber Science from Cornell University.

    Headshot of Grace Wu
    Grace Wu
    Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst

    Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

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