The Stearns and Foster Exeter Ltd, otherwise known as the "E" series, is a well constructed, supportive, and very firm mattress. People who like "sleeping on a cloud" will run from this product like a vampire from sunlight. And the market for such a firm mattress is probably shrinking; in my area, it was very hard to find a large selection of firm mattresses. Nevertheless, there are those individuals who appreciate the feeling of solidity this mattress deals in spades, and who need such a feature if only for a cure for back problems.

What it Is:

A very firm mattress. Other reviews have stressed this feature, and I will reinforce that perception. The online retailer, US Mattress, has a comfort scale which rates the "E" series as a 2.5 out of 10 with 1 being the most firm, and 10 being the most plush. This rating is very accurate, and you should consider this factor carefully before purchase.

A solidly constructed mattress. Stearns and Foster has been making mattresses since the 1800's, and even though it is now owned by Sealy, S & F still produces a quality product. The number of coils is only a little over 400, but the wire is a thick 12 gauge. Their are no hints of creaks, or other funny noises associated with a lesser mattress. Body impressions are none-existent. Like most mattresses today, the "E" series is thick. If you have a problem with a high-profile mattress, opt for the low-profile box spring.

The cure for an ailing back. If you have back problems, especially lower back pain, I would highly recommend this mattress as a helpful remedy. Due to it's rock-solid firmness, the "E" series will support your back like no plush or ultra-plush could ever hope to do. However, if you are not a back or stomach sleeper, this mattress may prove too firm for your taste.

What it is Not:

Cheap or a bargain. Stearns and Foster is a premium label, and they make a good product. You will pay more. However, in this case, you seem to get what you pay for. Note that Stearns and Foster uses the first letter of a particular mattress series to indicate what model you are buying. Therefore, I refer to the Exeter as an "E" series. You may find it under the name Edinburgh, or something else; but have no fear, it is the Exeter you are buying. However, you really can't comparison shop, as Stearns and Foster keeps their prices fairly fixed. I got mine on a 2001 closeout.

Side sleepers need not apply. This is a fairly brutal mattress for side sleepers as it puts a great deal of pressure on your hips and shoulders. If you have hip and shoulder problems, steer clear of the "E" series, and get a softer mattress altogether.

A Final Note:

A person on another forum referred to this mattress as the "Iron Maiden of Mattresses". A bit overstated, but not by much. Even I, a proponent of the firm mattress, found it a wee bit too hard, and solved the problem in the short term by purchasing a foam mattress pad. The "E" series is now not only supportive, but comfortable. I intend to go the extra mile, and purchase a down featherbed in the future. I would always recommend purchasing the best linens you can afford, but especially with this mattress as they will improve your comfort immensely.

Happy Sleeping!

Recommended: Yes

Mattress Size: Queen
Mattress Firmness: Extremely firm
Amount Paid (US$): 1259