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Molecule 1 Mattress
Molecule 1 Mattress

Molecule Mattress Review

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Review by Kieron
OUR EXPERT ANALYST UPDATED 10.06.2022
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The Molecule is endorsed by great athletes like Russell Wilson, Alex Morgan, and Michael Phelps. These endorsements helped Molecule brand to become very appealingly to athletes and people with active lifestyles. In this article, we’re going to review two, very similar Molecule mattresses. These sibling designs are aptly named Molecule 1 and Molecule 2, and we’re going to help you decide if they’re the right fit for your family. Below we’re going to highlight some design elements in these mattresses, as well as covering this company’s consumer services and policies.
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  • Lifetime warranty
  • 100 nights trial
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  • Free returns
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Who is the Molecule mattress for? 

  • People with an active lifestyle – These mattresses are designed to help the body stay cool, restore, and re-energize while asleep. 
  • Stomach and Back Sleepers – Each Molecule mattress has a distinctly different overall feel from the other, but they both seem to be a really good fit for most back and stomach sleepers.   
  • Anyone that is looking for a mildly responsive mattress –  The Molecule 1 mattress is the bouncier version of these two models, despite its memory foam feel. Sleepers who don’t want an overly springy mattress should like the feel of this mattress. 
  • Sleepers who want a durable mattress – Not many mattress companies offer their customers a lifetime warranty. Molecule does though, and we think their mattresses could last a really long time
  • Sleepers who need some form of contour support -Both mattresses have a comfort layering that is comparable to memory foam, with notably quicker response time. This is quite beneficial for sleepers who need some form of contour support, such as combination sleepers. 
  • Couples – These mattresses boast some really impressive motion isolation and edge support. Both these factors are quite important to couples who share the same sleeping space, as this means they are less likely to disturb each other’s sleep.

Who won’t love the Molecule mattress? 

  • Heavier sleeper types – Even though we like the design and performance of this mattress, we can’t personally recommend it to sleepers over the 250lbs weight mark. We don’t think the mattress has the structural integrity to give these sleepers the best possible comfort. 
  • Anyone who may need assistance installing a mattress – Molecule mattresses are shipped to your door in a box. There is no white glove delivery service or old mattress removal service. This may be problematic for people who can’t install a bed on their own, such as the elderly.

Molecule company policy  

Lifetime Warranty

100 Nights Trial

Free Shipping

Free
Returns

Made in
USA

10% OFF + Free Sheets
Code: WELCOME10
  • Lifetime warranty
  • 100 nights trial
  • Free shipping
  • Free returns
  • Made in USA
View Deal

Shipping:  Molecule mattresses are delivered to your doorstep via ground courier services. Delivery comes at no extra cost to customers. 

Old mattress removal:  There is no old mattress removal service included in the delivery. If you want to get rid of your mattress, try reaching out to a local donation program. 

Payment accepted, financing:  These mattresses can be purchased online using most major credit cards. Financing is on offer to consumers through the Klarna platform

Returns and refund:  Returns can be made within the sleep trial period given to customers. You will receive a full refund and the return won’t cost you anything.

Sleep trial period:  Like many other mattress companies, Molecule offers users a 100-night sleep trial to test out their mattress. This is around the general industry standard. 

Packaging and unpacking:  After purchase, your Molecule mattress is shipped to you in a box. Unpackaging is quite simple and easy and installing this mattress can be done by 2 people. The mattress should take just under a day to fully expand. 

Smell (off-gassing), harmful chemicals:  Molecule mattresses are made without any heavy or toxic chemicals or textiles. They are synthetic though, and you will experience some minor off gassing after unboxing. 

Where are the mattresses made?  Molecule mattresses are made in the United States of America. 

Molecule measurements and pricing

  • Molecule 1
  • Molecule 2
Molecule 1 Mattress
TWIN
39″ × 75″
TWIN XL
39″ × 80″
FULL
54″ × 75″
QUEEN
60″ × 80″
KING
76″ × 80″
CAL KING
72″ × 84″
Molecule 2 Mattress
TWIN
39″ × 75″
TWIN XL
39″ × 80″
FULL
54″ × 75″
QUEEN
60″ × 80″
KING
76″ × 80″
CAL KING
72″ × 84″

Molecule mattress performance

The Molecule mattresses both have practically the same design specs, with one or two pivotal differences between them. Consumers will want to have a firm understanding of just how they differ in terms of comfort level and feel before deciding which one to purchase. Molecule one is the slightly softer of the two, with a slightly more reactive mattress. Molecule 2 is the firmer, sturdier bigger brother in his range. It is also the more expensive of the two, which will be a deciding factor for some consumers.

Construction layers and materials used

Both Molecule mattresses appear to be completely identical at first sight and touch. However, they each offer users a distinctly different level of firmness and pressure response.This is part of what makes them so intriguing. The other very interesting element in this mattress is their patented Open Cell hybrid foam that is used in the comfort layering. These mattresses both have a very unique overall feel and performance and we can’t really compare them to any mattress that we have tried out before. In our next section, we’ll go inside their layering to show you just how they differ from each other.

Layering breakdown 

  • Cover The cover of the Molecule mattresses consists mainly of polyester. Polyester is used quite widely in the mattress world for covers as it does not stain easily and is quite soft to the touch. These covers are not removable and thus cannot be washed in a machine. They are quite durable and feel quite appealing against the skin, and not nearly as synthetic as you would imagine. 
  • Comfort Layer – The comfort layering used in these mattresses’ design is a vital element in their overall feel and performance. This is also the layer that determines the major differences between Molecule 1 and Molecule 2 in terms of firmness. This layer is constructed using what Molecule calls its open cell technology. This foam can be classified as a hybrid gel memory foam and is 2’’ thick in both mattresses. Molecule 2’s comfort layer has a much higher density, and slower response time compared to Molecule 1. This is what sets them apart in terms of their character and what they offer to prospective buyers. 
  • Transitional Layer – This layer is around 3’’ thick in both designs and is responsible for serving as a buffer between the comfort layer and the support base. This layer is made up of a polyfoam that is split into various ‘zones’ of firmness and contour support. Molecule 1 has 3 of these zones and offers extra support for those who need some extra conformity for their curves. The Molecule has 5 of these zones and is geared towards providing extra firmness for stomach and back sleepers. Both mattresses have transitional layers of equal density, but with slightly different characteristics.
  • High-Density Support Base – The bases in both of these mattresses consist of a high-density polyfoam. This is another very common design and textile use that we have seen in other mattresses, mainly due to its reliability. Adding a high-density base to mattresses like this gives them a much needed structural integrity and helps to enhance their capabilities overall. Both of these bases stand at around 7 ½’’ and give them the majority of their height profile.

Below is a simple table to show you the specifications and order of the layering system used in the Molecule’s mattresses’ design. 

  • Molecule 1
  • Molecule 2
  1. Polyester/Lycra Cooling Cover
  2. 2" RESTOREFLO™ Open Cell Memory Foam
  3. 3" RECOVERYFLO™ 3-Zone Dynamic Response Layer
  4. 7" High-Density Cotton/PolyBase
Molecule 1 Mattress Layers
  1. Polyester/Lycra Antimicrobial Advanced Cooling Cover
  2. 1" BioCHARGE™ Crystal-Infused Foam
  3. 2" AirTEC™ Open Cell Foam
  4. 3" RECOVERYFLO™ 5-Zone Dynamic Response Layer
  5. 6" High-Density Cotton/PolyBase
Molecule 2 Mattress Layers

Molecule mattress firmness 

Each respective Molecule mattress is available to users in one standard firmness option. Molecule 1 is the softer, more responsive of the two mattresses. It is punted as a medium soft to consumers but we think it sits on the border of medium and medium-soft firmness. It feels like it is just under a neutral firmness, but not to the extent that it feels plush. We scored it at around a 4-5/10 on our personal firmness charts. The Molecule has a noticeable increase in firmness compared to its predecessor. This mattress is definitely above medium firmness on our personal charts and has a decidedly harder, slower responding firmness. We place it at around a 6-7/10 on our relative firmness scale. Understanding the difference in firmness between these two mattresses can be helpful when deciding which one will be the best option to suit your sleeping requirements. 

We’ve laid out this table below to show you how each Molecule mattress and setting compare to each other in firmness. These are our own relative charts and should only be used as a simple guideline.

MATTRESS FIRMNESS SCALE

Soft Medium Soft Medium Medium Firm Firm

Molecule 1

-
-
-
-

Molecule 2

-
-
-
-

Sleep position, pressure relief and body type

Every person has his or her set of unique sleeping requirements. These are determined by factors such as their height, weight, the number of sleepers in their bed, as well as their primary sleeping position. All these factors create different pressure relief requirements for these sleeper types. We found some of the more common sleeper types and tested the Molecule 1 and 2 on them to see who they suit best. Here are some of our findings and predictions:

Back Sleepers 

Molecule 2 is a wonderful option for back sleepers. Its medium-firm comfort layer is split up into 5 zones that become firmer in the center of the mattress. The extra firmness in the center is great for supporting the extra pressure created by back sleepers around their hip/pelvic area. Back sleepers under 250lbs should be able to find a decent resting position on this mattress without any sort of strain or discomfort.  

Side Sleepers

Side sleepers generally disperse pressure along various points on their body. As such, they need a mattress that can provide them with some form of compensation for their body’s natural curves. The Molecule 1 is the more forgiving of the two models in terms of firmness and contour support. Side sleepers will be able to rest their natural contours into the surface of this mattress without any major hindrance. We do feel that lighter/smaller side sleepers may need to opt for a mattress that has a softer overall firmness. 

Stomach Sleepers

The Molecule 2 mattress is as good for stomach sleepers as it is for back sleepers. These sleeper types also need to be able to lay down flat, without any sinking in their hips or pelvis are – just like back sleepers. Thankfully the enhanced firmness in this mattress’s transitional layer ensures that stomach sleepers get the extra support they need to find and maintain a comfortable resting position. However, most stomach sleepers over the 250lbs weight mark will have to find a mattress that is a bit sturdier than this one to experience long term comfort. 

Combination Sleepers

Combination sleepers have a similar set of pressure relief needs to side sleepers. More than anything, they need a mattress that will allow or help them switch sleeping positions without waking up. The quicker response time in Molecule 1’s comfort layer makes it the more appropriate choice for combo sleepers below 250lbs. Some combo sleepers may need to opt for something that is just a bit bouncier, but most midweight side sleepers will enjoy at least basic levels of comfort from the Molecule 1’s design. 

Heavy Sleepers

Every design and build will come with its limitations. Heavyweight is the unfortunate limitation for both of these mattresses. Even though the Molecule 2 is decidedly firmer of the two models on offer, we still do not think it’s strong enough to consistently withstand the pressure caused by larger sleepers over 250lbs. These sleepers may feel supported and comfortable on their mattresses within their sleep trial period, but we predict they will wear much faster than some of their competitors in this price bracket.

Petite Sleepers

There are some petite sleepers who will enjoy the firmness and feel that Molecule 1 has to offer. It is the softer of the two mattress models, and even though we don’t think it’s perfect for every type of smaller sleeper, there are some who will benefit from its design and construction. This mattress has a medium-soft feel, which – ironically – will best suit the frames of smaller back and stomach sleepers that may struggle to find comfort on the Molecule 2. 

Molecule edge support

The edge support that these mattresses offer will be favorable to some, but not to all sleeper types. Edge support is a highly important factor couples consider when buying a mattress, as they use more surface area than single sleepers. Weak sides on a bed can lead to uncomfortable sleeping positions and strain on the hips, sides, or back of an individual. Both the Molecule mattresses have a respectable level of edge support, with the Molecule 2 being just a slight bit firmer than the Molecule 1. Our testers did notice some sinkage along the edge’s when sitting on the sides, which may become increasingly problematic over time, especially under heavy body weights. This isn’t a majorly deterring factor in this mattress and overall comfort on the edges will come down to your personal preferences. 

Perfect for Thickness Edge Support Discount

Molecule 1

Side Sleepers 120 - 250lbs.
Back/Stomach sleepers under 150lbs.

12.25"
Fair

10% OFF

CLAIM HERE

Molecule 2

Back, stomach or combination sleepers, couples, anyone between 120 - 250lbs.

12.25"
Good

10% OFF

CLAIM HERE

Molecule mattress temperature regulation

The comfort layering used in these mattresses’ design is marketed as having cooling abilities. While we can’t say that these are definitely active cooling elements, we can’t foresee these mattresses overheating very easily. The natural feel of both Molecule 1 and Molecule 2 are very temperature neutral. These mattresses are a pretty good option for sleepers who don’t tend to warm up easily during sleep cycles. However, if it is active cooling you seek, and you are someone who tends to overheat during rest, you’ll either want to invest in a cooling cover for this mattress or look for something else with more active cooling components. It’s also best to use these mattresses in conjunction with a foundation or base that will encourage airflow, such as a frame with wooden slats.

MATTRESS TEMPERATURE SCALE

Cool Medium Cool Medium Medium Warm Warm

Molecule 1

-
-
-
-

Molecule 2

-
-
-
-

Motion isolation and noise

There are a number of sleeper types out there who can be woken by even the slightest disturbance at night, be it from noise or movement. These sleepers will want to invest in a bed with strong motion isolation abilities. Molecule 1 and 2 both exhibit very strong motion isolation, and we think they’re a great choice for sensitive sleepers. The transitional layers used in these mattresses’ design absorb and diffuse any ripples or vibrations caused by movement along the bed surface. These mattresses are also considerably quieter under movement than other mattress types with coils or springs in their base.

Is Molecule suitable for couples and sex?

There are a healthy handful of reasons we would recommend the Molecule mattresses to couples. Their reliable edge support makes them a good fit for couples, as they can make the most out of all the surface area on the mattress. In addition, these mattresses are both quite efficient at isolating motion and noise caused by you or your partner’s movements during sleep. Couples that are looking to have a healthy and active sex life will require a mattress that is both supportive and responsive. Molecule 1 maybe just a bit too soft for optimum support, but it does have the right kind of bounce need for good traction during sex. Molecule 2 is supportive enough, but some couples may find it a bit dull in terms of bounce and response time.

Durability and longevity

Very few mattress companies are confident enough to place a lifetime warranty on their products. Molecule, however, has done just this, and even though there is some fine print to consider, this is a very appealing offer to most consumers. While we don’t think this mattress is going to last longer than the average human lifespan, we do think they have the potential to outlast many of their competitors in this price bracket. We think that with enough care and decent conditions, that your Molecule mattress could last up to 8 years before you begin to notice any sort of major wear and tear.

Bed base 

Molecule naturally encourages its users to enjoy their mattresses with their signature adjustable bed base. This is the only foundation on offer from Molecule but it is a pretty impressive one. The base has a variety of different settings and comes with some very luxurious features such as a remote control, USB charging ports, and head-to-toe massage mode. This very attractive foundation comes at a pretty high price though, and we don’t think it’s necessary for optimum comfort levels. These mattresses could work perfectly well on a frame with slats, as this would help maintain their airflow and overall temperature. Metal frames might damage the base of this mattress, as would a box spring foundation.

Have a look at this table below to get a better understanding of which bed base works best with the Molecule mattresses.

COMPATIBLE WITH THESE BED BASES

Adjustable

Slats

Divan

Molecule mattress complaints

  • Considering that the only major difference between Molecule 1 and 2 is their foam density and overall firmness, we think the price increase between them is just a bit too steep for the extra quality they offer.
  • Numerous users have reported off-gassing smells that occur after unboxing. We did experience off-gassing when we unboxed the mattress, but the smell subsided quite shortly afterward. 

Our final verdict: Do we recommend the Molecule mattress brand?

OUR RATING

4/5

4/5
  • Molecule mattresses have a genuinely interesting hybrid foam used in their comfort layering. The comfort offered by this foam is truly unique to its design, and can’t really be compared to any other foam on the market today. 
  • These mattresses are a really smart choice for couples who are looking to share a sleeping space. They provide efficient motion isolation and adequate edge support for most couples to share a mattress quite comfortably. 
  • We really back the comfort offered to back and stomach sleepers by Molecule 2. The extra firmness in the center of the mattress is perfect for providing these kinds of sleepers with adequate frame support. 
  • The Lifetime Warranty that comes with the purchase of a Molecule mattress makes it all the more enticing to sleepers who are considering buying one. Thanks so much for reading through our review of the Molecule mattress. Until next time, rest easy.

FAQ

The main difference between these mattresses is that Molecule 2 is firmer than Molecule 1, and has less bounce, but more overall support.

Molecule 2 is a pretty good fit for most side sleepers under 250lbs.

We think that they are fairly priced, but that the price difference between them may be a bit too big. 

Molecule mattresses are made in the USA

10% OFF + Free Sheets
Code: WELCOME10
  • Lifetime warranty
  • 100 nights trial
  • Free shipping
  • Free returns
  • Made in USA
View Deal

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