Written by Lisa Bowman, Writer
Sleep Number specializes in air beds, with mattresses that feature air chambers that can be inflated or deflated to adjust firmness level. In 2017, the company launched its 360® smart bed range, featuring the ability to separately adjust the firmness on each side of the bed, Responsive Air® technology that automatically adjusts firmness while you sleep, and SleepIQ® technology to assess sleep quality.
The Sleep Number 360® iLE is part of Sleep Number’s Innovation series, which they say is their most luxurious combination of contouring combined with temperature regulation. Like the sound of a high-tech bed? Let’s see if you could be a good fit.
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress
A high-tech smart bed with 20 firmness options that adjusts itself during the night based on your movements.
Read Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress Review
Save up to 20% off smart beds
Material
Other
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$$
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress
A high-tech smart bed with 20 firmness options that adjusts itself during the night based on your movements.
Read Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress Review
Material
Other
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$$
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress
A high-tech smart bed with 20 firmness options that adjusts itself during the night based on your movements.
Read Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress Review
Material
Other
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$$
Who We Recommend The Sleep Number 360® iLE For:
- Shoppers who love smart technology – This bed features innovative technology that allows you to change the firmness of the bed manually, or automatically as you sleep, via Responsive Air™ technology. The bed also uses biometrics to assess your sleep quality, offering tips via its SleepIQ® app, to get better rest.
- Lightweight combination sleepers – The bed’s automatic adjusting of firmness is great for combination sleepers but particularly lightweight combo sleepers, who shouldn’t feel ‘stuck’ in the plush foam.
- Couples – With its fantastic motion isolation, cooling technology, good edge support, and ability to customize firmness for each side of the bed, this mattress could be a great choice for couples, especially those who have differing needs when it comes to firmness.
Who We Don’t Recommend The Sleep Number 360® iLE For:
- Couples who sleep in the center of the bed – Couples who have their sides inflated to different levels may experience discomfort if they cuddle together in the middle of the bed, as an indentation may appear where the two air chambers meet. In this case, a more traditional mattress for couples may be preferred.
- Shoppers on a small budget – At 5,399 dollars for a Queen, the Sleep Number 360® iLE isn’t a cheap mattress, and you may have to fork out extra money over the years if things go wrong, as the 15-year warranty only covers the full cost of repairs in the first year.
First Impressions: Firmness & Feel
Please remember that firmness is a subjective characteristic and your shape will dictate how you experience a bed. A heavier person whose weight can more easily push through softer comfort and support layers may experience a bed as softer than a lightweight person. The way you are shaped could also play a role here. Consider your weight, shape, and size when evaluating firmness scores.
Sleep Number smart beds are designed to have an adjustable firmness (that changes throughout the night, depending on your movements), with each bed offering 20 firmness options, called Sleep Numbers. These range from 1 to 100 and the higher the number, the firmer the bed.
The Sleep Number is easily changed via the supplied remote control, or by using the SleepIQ® app. Queen sizes and above feature two air chambers that can be adjusted individually. As Sleep Number offers a unique firmness system, it’s harder to rate using our regular firmness scale, but we’d say it sleeps quite plush due to the 6 inches of comfort foam.
How Does It Feel?
The Sleep Number 360® iLE is designed to offer plush, pressure-relieving comfort, and even though the firmness level can be changed (out of a possible 20 options), the brand has used its softest foam in the comfort layers, which gives it a plush, cushioning memory foam feel. You should feel your pressure points being cradled, with the foam distributing your weight evenly for maximum comfort.
What We Like About the Sleep Number 360® iLE
- Adjustable firmness options – It can be hard to make a decision on mattress firmness, but this one gives you up to 20 firmness levels, as well as using Responsive Air™ technology to adjust the firmness throughout the night based on your movements. This is great for combination sleepers.
- SleepIQ® sleep tracking – Quality sleep is essential for good health and energy, and this smart bed measures biometrics like heart rate, breathing rate, and movement to assess how well you slept, while also giving you tips on how to improve your sleep quality. You can even track trends with a monthly HealthIQ® report.
- Fantastic pressure relief – With its 6 inches of plush comfort foam, the Sleep Number 360® iLE offers great pressure relief in all sleeping positions, which should soothe joint pain, helping you sleep better.
Our Sleep Number 360® iLE Complaints
- Returns aren’t free – Many online bed companies offer free returns for total peace of mind, but you’ll have to foot the shipping bill if you decide this bed isn’t for you. Sleep Number offers a return service for 249 dollars plus tax, which isn’t cheap.
- SleepIQ may be confusing for some – While the Sleep Number reps who deliver your bed will talk you through the technology – with instruction manuals also available online – it can be a lot to take in. This won’t be an issue for those who live for the latest technology, but those who prefer things a bit simpler may be better off on a more traditional bed.
- Noise – The bed makes a soft humming noise when adjusting, and while it’s muffled by the thick foam layers, it may still be an issue for exceptionally light sleepers.
Testing the Sleep Number 360® iLE Mattress: How it Performed
We test mattresses for important qualities like motion isolation, pressure relief, cooling, and edge support. Additionally, we look at how mattresses perform for support and pressure relief in various sleep postures. Our tests are designed to help you make an informed decision, so you can shop with confidence.
Sleeping Positions for Different Body Types
The Sleep Number 360® iLE has a maximum weight restriction of 400 pounds per air chamber. Twin XL and Full sizes have one air chamber, so they have a total weight capacity of 400 pounds, while Queen sizes and up feature two air chambers and have a maximum weight limit of 800 pounds.
Side Sleepers
- Lightweight Sleepers – Lightweight side sleepers often prefer softer beds to provide the required pressure relief at the shoulders and hips, and this bed should be ideal with its plush cushioning and adjustable firmness.
- Average Weight Sleepers – Average-weight side sleepers should also experience fantastic pressure relief at the joints while finding a firmness level that offers the support they need to keep the spine in alignment.
- Heavyweight Sleepers – We think most heavyweight side sleepers should be comfortable on this bed, as it offers deep sinkage for pressure relief and adjustable firmness. However, some people on the heavier end of the scale may find it doesn’t provide enough support to maintain correct posture.
Discover the Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers.
Back Sleepers
- Lightweight Sleepers – Lightweight back sleepers should be able to find a firmness level that offers them good lower back support and pressure relief. However, personal preference may mean some sleepers don’t find it firm enough.
- Average Weight Sleepers – As above, we thought this bed offered good support and cushioning for average-weight people, although some back sleepers will prefer a firmer mattress.
- Heavyweight Sleepers – Heavyweight sleepers closer to 230 pounds may find the higher Sleep Numbers offer adequate back support, but we think most will find themselves sinking too far into the comfort layers, causing aches and pains.
Browse Beds for Back Sleepers.
Stomach Sleepers
- Lightweight Sleepers – Lightweight stomach sleepers should be able to find a Sleep Number that provides enough support to keep the hips elevated, while still comfortably cushioning the shoulders and chest.
- Average Weight Sleepers – Average-weight sleepers should also find themselves experiencing great pressure relief and hip support, helping to alleviate any potential lower back pain.
- Heavyweight Sleepers – While higher Sleep Numbers could work for some heavier stomach sleepers, we think most will find themselves bottoming out, which could cause a lot of discomfort over time.
Explore our picks for the Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers.
Pressure Relief & Pain
With its plush, 6-inch comfort layer, the Sleep Number 360® iLE offers fantastic pressure relief, no matter which firmness level you choose. This plush foam should gently cradle your body while evenly distributing weight to help alleviate any aches or pains in sensitive areas. We found this bed most suitable for light to average-weight sleepers – some heavyweight people could find even the firmest Sleep Number too soft, causing excess sinkage and discomfort.
Back Pain – While this bed does offer a wide range of firmness levels, it still feels rather plush, thanks to the tall comfort layer. This could work for some light to average-weight back sleepers, but others might find themselves needing firmer support for their back pain.
More: Best Mattress for Back Pain
Hip Pain – Most side sleepers with hip pain should experience fantastic pressure relief and adequate support from this bed, with the deep cushioning soothing any sensitivity.
Shoulder Pain – Again, side sleepers with shoulder pain should feel a lot of relief from the plush comfort layers. Stomach sleepers could also enjoy relief at the shoulders.
Support
The Sleep Number 360® iLE offers tailored support with its adjustable firmness system, which can also be set to change firmness while you sleep, adapting the level of support that’s required for different sleeping positions.
However, we think that this bed would most suit light to average-weight people (anyone below 230 pounds) because heavier types may not get the support they need, even from the firmest Sleep Number. This is due to the thick comfort layer, which could cause those over 230 pounds to sag into the foam, putting their spine out of alignment.
Motion Transfer
Motion isolation is important for light sleepers who share a bed with a restless partner or pet – a bed with minimal motion transfer will isolate movement to that part of the bed, keeping the other sleeper undisturbed. The Sleep Number 360® iLE bed sizes that are designed for two people have separate air chambers on each side of the mattress, which means it has fantastic motion isolation.
Temperature Regulation / Cooling
Beds containing foam can sleep quite hot, as foam is known for trapping heat. Luckily, the Sleep Number 360® iLE has a breathable surface and layers designed for temperature regulation. The air chamber quite literally promotes airflow, and the breathable foam absorbs and dissipates heat, helping to keep you cool and making it a great cooling bed.
Performance for Couples
The Sleep Number 360® iLE is suitable for a wide range of sleepers and can be programmed to have different firmness levels on each side of the bed, which could appeal to couples. The bed’s cooling technology, good edge support, and fantastic motion isolation also make it a great bed for couples.
However, couples who like to cuddle in the center of the bed may find it uncomfortable if their chambers have hugely different firmness options, as there will be an indentation between the two chambers.
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress
A high-tech smart bed with 20 firmness options that adjusts itself during the night based on your movements.
Read Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress Review
Material
Other
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$$
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress
A high-tech smart bed with 20 firmness options that adjusts itself during the night based on your movements.
Read Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress Review
Material
Other
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$$
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress
A high-tech smart bed with 20 firmness options that adjusts itself during the night based on your movements.
Read Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress Review
Material
Other
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$$
Preference-based Features
Smart Technology
The Sleep Number 360® iLE uses smart technology to help you get a good night’s sleep, allowing you to customize the bed using your smartphone and track your sleep quality on the SleepIQ® app.
Multiple Firmness Options
This mattress has 20 firmness selections, and on larger sizes, each side of the bed can be customized to suit the individual sleeper. Responsive Air™ technology will even adjust the firmness while you sleep, according to any movements you make.
Good Edge Support
Edge support is something to consider if you’re a couple that likes to spread out. The Sleep Number 360® iLE features foam walls around the perimeter, offering good stability around the edges, so you shouldn’t feel like you’re about to roll out.
Adjustable Base Compatible
While this mattress is compatible with adjustable bases, Sleep Number recommends one of its FlexFit™ adjustable smart bases, which come with features like lighting under the bed and foot warming. The mattress shouldn’t be used on a frame with slats or a box spring base, as these won’t provide the necessary support for the heavy mattress.
Construction: What’s Inside the Sleep Number 360® iLE?
The Sleep Number 360® iLE is a 12-inch tall smart bed, constructed with multiple foam layers and an air support system that offers adjustable firmness levels. The mattress starts with a poly-blend cover that’s designed to be breathable and sweat-wicking.
- The 3-inch pillow top is fluffy, duvet-style, and cozy enough to make you feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud.
- The comfort layer is 3 inches tall, made from a foam that’s exclusive to this Sleep Number model. It’s designed to be incredibly breathable and cooling, conforming to the body with five-zoned support that conforms to the body and supports you as you move.
- The air support system lies beneath the foam, and there’ll be either one or two air chambers, depending on the size of the bed. The air chambers are connected to a pump via hoses that inflate or deflate the chambers according to your programmed Sleep Number firmness level.
- The base layer is made up of a 1-inch high-density foam pad that’s designed to cushion the air chambers and offer durability for the rest of the bed.
- The perimeter is constructed with foam walls to provide stability at the edges of the bed.
Please note that Sleep number beds require an electrical source within five feet, and the SleepIQ® system requires wifi in the bedroom for it to operate. However, if your internet malfunctions, you can still control your bed using Bluetooth.
Unboxing & Off-Gassing
The Sleep Number 360® iLE will be set up for you, and you’ll be shown how to use it. As with all foam beds, there may be an element of off-gassing. Thankfully, while it smells unpleasant, it’s considered harmless and is simply the result of chemical by-products being released after being trapped in foam.
Certifications
- Eco-Friendly Certifications – The foams in this bed are CertiPUR-US® certified. CertiPUR-US® is a third-party program that ensures the foams meet rigorous health and safety standards. This means they don’t contain harmful substances like ozone depleters, PBDEs, heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates. They should also have low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.
Coupons, Trials, Warranties, and Shipping
- Shipping – All Sleep Number 360® beds have to be delivered via their premium service, which comes at 249 dollars. This includes the set-up of your new mattress, the creation of a SleepIQ® account, and a demonstration of how to use your new bed.
- White Glove Delivery – As mentioned above, this bed will be delivered and set up for you. Additionally, your old mattress will be moved to another room for free, or it can be removed and recycled for an extra 49 dollars. This premium service is available to select areas in all 50 states and may be available outside of these areas for an additional fee.
- Trial – You’ll have 100 nights to sleep on your decision.
- Warranty – The Sleep Number iLE comes with a 15-year limited warranty. Sleep Number covers the cost of all repairs within the first year after purchase, but then it gets a bit complicated. After the first year, you’ll be required to cover a percentage of the cost, which increases each year, starting at 30 percent and rising to 85 percent during the fifteenth (and final) year.
- Return Policy – You’ll receive a full refund (minus shipping charges) if you return your bed within the 100-night trial period. However, any return shipping fees must be covered by the consumer. Sleep Number can arrange return shipping for 249 dollars plus tax. Sleep Number requires you to have owned the bed for 30 nights before requesting a return.
Sizes & Prices
| Size | Dimensions (inches) | Price (w/o discount) |
|---|---|---|
| Twin | N/A | N/A |
| Twin XL | 38” x 80” x 12” | $4,799 |
| Full | 54” x 75” x 12” | $5,074 |
| Queen | 60” x 80” x 12” | $5,399 |
| King | 76” x 80” x 12” | $6,099 |
| Cali King | 72” x 84” x 12” | $6,099 |
| Split King | 76” x 80” x 12” | $7,299 |
| Split Cali King | 72” x 84” x 12” | $7,299 |
| FlexTop King | 76” x 80” x 12” | $7,299 |
| FlexTop Cali King | 72” x 84” x 12” | $7,299 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the iLE and i8?
Both Sleep Number beds are part of the brand’s Innovation series, but the i8 is the cheapest, while the iLE is a limited edition, more luxurious version. Both beds feature the company’s air chambers, but the iLE has a thicker layer of comfort foam, including a foam that’s exclusive to this model.
How much does a Sleep Number 360® bed cost?
The of a Sleep Number 360® bed varies. The cheapest 360® bed is the Sleep Number 360® c2 Smart Bed, which is in the Classic range. A Queen in this model costs 1,099 dollars. The most expensive 360® beds are the iLE and i10, both in the Innovation range. These beds will set you back 5,399 dollars for a Queen.
What is the lifespan of a Sleep Number bed?
The brand states that each bed should last a minimum of 15 years and provides a 15-year warranty, which only covers part of the cost of repair after the first year. While numerous online reviews complain of parts breaking down after just a few years, these can be repaired or replaced.
Sleep Number 360® iLE vs Other Brands
Sleep Number 360® iLE vs Saatva Solaire
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nights
Product
Saatva Solaire MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
365 nightsWho We Recommend the Sleep Number 360® iLE For
- Shoppers who prefer to control their bed with an app
- Those looking to assess their sleep quality
- People with joint pain
Who We Recommend the Saatva Solaire For
- Heavyweight sleepers
- Shoppers wanting a bed with eco-conscious materials
- Those who prefer the peace of mind of a lifetime warranty
Sleep Number 360® iLE vs Eight Sleep The Pod
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nights
Product
Eight Sleep Pod Pro MattressFirmness
Soft: 6/10Trial Period
100 nightsWho We Recommend the Sleep Number 360® iLE For
- Those who don’t want to do any regular maintenance
- Lightweight sleepers
- People looking for a customizable firmness
Who We Recommend the Eight Sleep The Pod For
- Hot or cold sleepers seeking individualized temperature regulation technology
- Those desiring an alarm clock feature
- Average-weight people
Sleep Number 360® iLE vs Other Sleep Number Models
Sleep Number 360® iLE vs Sleep Number 360® p6
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nights
Product
Sleep Number 360 p6 Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nightsWho We Recommend the Sleep Number 360® iLE For
- Side sleepers
- Lightweight sleepers
- People who experience joint pain
Who We Recommend the Sleep Number 360® p6 For
- Back sleepers
- Heavyweight sleepers
- Shoppers on a slightly smaller budget
Sleep Number 360® iLE vs Sleep Number 360® i10
Product
Firmness
Trial Period
Product
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nights
Product
Sleep Number 360 i10 Smart MattressFirmness
Multiple firmness optionsTrial Period
100 nightsWho We Recommend the Sleep Number 360® iLE For
- Side sleepers
- Lightweight sleepers
- Shoppers requiring a Twin XL or Full size
Who We Recommend the Sleep Number 360® i10 For
- Stomach sleepers
- Those wanting an extra inch of comfort foam
- Heavyweight folks
Overall Summary
The Sleep Number 360® iLE smart bed suits most light and average-weight sleepers, lightweight combination sleepers, and couples.
Side Sleepers
4/5
We think this bed could be a great choice for most side sleepers as it offers exceptional pressure relief with its 6 inches of comfort foam, providing important pressure relief at the shoulders and hips. Most people should be able to find a firmness level that provides adequate support, but extra-heavy people may need a firmer mattress.
Back Sleepers
4/5
Back sleepers usually require a firmer mattress to prevent their hips from bottoming out, and while the firmness level of this bed is adjustable, we don’t think most heavyweight back sleepers will feel supported enough. However, many light to average-weight back sleepers should experience good support and cushioning.
Stomach Sleepers
4/5
Stomach sleepers should look for a mattress that offers enough cushioning to provide comfort for the chest and shoulders, while also providing good support to keep the hips from sinking too deeply, which will throw your spine out of alignment. We think this bed is great for light to average-weight stomach sleepers, but heavier people may require a firmer bed.
Combination Sleepers
4/5
This bed is suitable for a wide range of sleepers, and a major feature that could appeal to combination sleepers is the setting that allows the bed to adjust firmness during the night, depending on your sleeping position. However, the plush foams may make it more difficult for average to heavyweight people to change positions.
Couples
4/5
Overall, this bed could be a fantastic choice for couples, as it suits a variety of sleepers and each partner can program their side of the bed to suit their needs. It has cooling technology, good edge support, and great motion isolation. The only drawback is that sexually-active couples may find it harder to move around on the plush foam.
Heavy Sleepers
3/5
We think this bed could work for most heavier side sleepers, who can choose firmer Sleep Numbers to keep them supported and comfortably cushioned. However back and stomach sleepers will likely require a firmer mattress to offer the support they need.
Lightweight Sleepers
5/5
Lightweight sleepers should find this bed an absolute treat, as they should be able to find a firmness level that works for all sleeping positions while experiencing plush cushioning. Having said this, some back sleepers might prefer a firmer model. Lightweight combination sleepers will also be able to move around easily on the plush foam.
Average Weight Sleepers
4/5
Average-weight sleepers could love this bed, as its adjustable firmness means they should be able to find comfort, support, and great pressure relief in multiple sleeping positions, although some back sleepers may have a preference for a firmer bed. One drawback is that average-weight combination sleepers may feel a little ‘stuck’ in the foam, hindering movement.
Overall Value
3/5
The Sleep Number 360® iLE could be worth the investment for fans of sleep technology. However, while the mattress is designed to last for 15 years or more, the 15-year warranty doesn’t cover the full cost of repair after the first year, and there are online reviews mentioning breakdowns.
Our Verdict
If you love innovative technology in the bedroom, the Sleep Number 360® iLE could be right up your alley. Featuring air chambers that offer a choice of 20 firmness levels – adjustable via remote control, the SleepIQ® app, or automatically while you sleep – and plush, pressure-relieving foam, the bed is suitable for a wide range of sleepers.
We think light to average-weight people and couples could particularly love this bed. However, the mattress isn’t cheap and features lots of parts that could potentially malfunction over the years. If you’re in the market for a smart bed and not swayed by the Sleep Number, check out our other smart mattresses.
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress
A high-tech smart bed with 20 firmness options that adjusts itself during the night based on your movements.
Read Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress Review
Material
Other
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$$
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress
A high-tech smart bed with 20 firmness options that adjusts itself during the night based on your movements.
Read Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress Review
Material
Other
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$$
Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress
A high-tech smart bed with 20 firmness options that adjusts itself during the night based on your movements.
Read Sleep Number 360 iLE Smart Mattress Review
Material
Other
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Flat-rate white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$$
Lisa Bowman
Writer
About Author
Lisa is a content writer for Sleep Advisor, which combines two of her greatest passions – writing and sleeping. She can also be found writing about fitness, sustainability and vegan food.
Combination Sleeper