Best Soft Mattresses

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With thousands of soft mattresses available today, choosing the one that’s perfect for you can present a challenge. There are many questions to be asked. Will it be soft enough? Will it be too soft? Will it sag excessively? Which mattress firmness level is right for me? Can it support my body weight and have a plush feel at the same time? What’s best for my sleeping position? In this guide, we’re sharing our top picks for the best soft & plush mattresses, why we love them, and who they are best for! 

What’s the Best Soft Mattress?

Our team of mattress experts have determined the Puffy Royal Hybrid mattress is the best soft mattress. It offers plenty of cushioning and pressure relief for joint and back pain, especially for side sleepers. It also has top-tier motion isolation capabilities for couples and is built to last.

The Best Soft Mattresses

Chosen by Experts and Advocates

At Mattress Nerd, our team of certified sleep science coaches considers a wide variety of factors when grading products. In the case of this list, we only considered mattresses that had a firmness level of 5.5/10 (medium-soft) or below. Once we determined if they were soft enough to qualify, we measured qualities such as pressure relief, edge support, and durability to ensure that the mattresses provided plenty of support despite their cloud-like feel. 

Some of the mattresses mentioned in this article come in multiple firmness options. In those cases, we are speaking specifically about the softest option available. Check out our full testing process to learn more.

Best Soft Mattresses Video

Puffy Royal Hybrid – Nerd’s Pick

Nerd's Pick

Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress

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The Puffy Royal Hybrid is Puffy’s take on a luxury memory foam hybrid mattress. Its medium-soft firmness level and conforming top layers make it ideal for side sleepers who like a neutral all-foam feel.

Nerd Score 4.0/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

101 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-soft: 4/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
5.0/5
Nerd's Pick

Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress

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The Puffy Royal Hybrid is Puffy’s take on a luxury memory foam hybrid mattress. Its medium-soft firmness level and conforming top layers make it ideal for side sleepers who like a neutral all-foam feel.

Nerd Score 4.0/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Medium-soft: 4/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

101 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
5.0/5
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Nerd's Pick

Puffy Royal Hybrid Mattress

The Puffy Royal Hybrid is Puffy’s take on a luxury memory foam hybrid mattress. Its medium-soft firmness level and conforming top layers make it ideal for side sleepers who like a neutral all-foam feel.

Nerd Score 4.0/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Medium-soft: 4/10

Trial Period

101 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
5.0/5
Pros of the Puffy Royal Hybrid
Great motion isolation
Very quiet
Cons of the Puffy Royal Hybrid
Lacking slightly in responsiveness
Disappointing temperature regulation

The Puffy Royal Hybrid mattress is constructed with several layers of cushiony foam that cradle your body for elite body contouring. Most side sleepers and lightweight back sleepers should comfortably sink into the mattress’s comfort layers while still maintaining spinal alignment.

With the Puffy Royal Hybrid, you get a construction that excels at motion isolation. Both the individually wrapped coils and and the thick foam layers at the top will keep any movements controlled and won’t wake up your partner in the middle of the night.

Overall, this bed is extremely soft, one of the softest beds we’ve ever come across at a 4 out of 10 on our firmness scale. It also has exceptional pressure relief, so if you’re looking to alleviate back pain with your mattress, this is a great option for that. 

When you go to buy, you’ll get free shipping, a 101-night sleep trial, and a lifetime warranty.

What our testers say: “The Puffy Royal Hybrid mattress has a feel that matches its name: It’s just that, Puffy, landing it on the softer side. You’ll feel hugged by the soft, doughy foam layers.” – Becca, Editor & Mattress Tester

Other User Reviews

On Puffy’s site, the Puffy Royal has 5 out of 5 stars. The overwhelmingly positive reviews say the bed was comfortable and easy to set up. Negative reviews say they wish the bed had better edge support.

Read our full review of the Puffy Royal Hybrid mattress to learn more about this model.

Saatva Classic – Best Soft Hybrid Mattress

Best Soft Hybrid Mattress

Saatva Mattress

Saatva Classic

The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress delivered to your home by white glove professionals. It's made with luxury materials like organic cotton, a plush pillow top, and durable coils. Choose from Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm options.

Nerd Score 4.3/5
Read Full Review

Material

Innerspring

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Soft Hybrid Mattress

Saatva Mattress

Saatva Classic

The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress delivered to your home by white glove professionals. It's made with luxury materials like organic cotton, a plush pillow top, and durable coils. Choose from Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm options.

Nerd Score 4.3/5
Read Full Review

Material

Innerspring

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Trial Period

365 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Saatva Classic
Best Soft Hybrid Mattress

Saatva Mattress

The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress delivered to your home by white glove professionals. It's made with luxury materials like organic cotton, a plush pillow top, and durable coils. Choose from Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm options.

Nerd Score 4.3/5
Read Full Review

Material

Innerspring

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

365 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pros of the Saatva
Great for hot sleepers
Good for folks with back pain
Cons of the Saatva
Expensive
Not ideal for folks with shoulder pain

Hybrid mattresses combine the bounce of innerspring coils with the latex or memory foam comfort layers. The Saatva Classic is a luxury hybrid mattress that comes in three firmness levels. The Plush Soft model is the softest of the Saatva Classic models, and our team of expert reviewers ranked it a 3/10 on our firmness scale. This model is the most ideal for side sleepers looking for extra cushioning and pressure relief.

The Saatva Classic is constructed with a 3″ Euro pillow top made with an organic cotton cover that is ideal for sleepers with allergies. It’s also made with reinforced edges to prevent sagging and make getting out of bed a piece of cake. If you’re after high-quality sleep on a hybrid mattress, we think the Plush Soft version of the Saatva Classic can’t be beat.

What our testers say: “If you’re a side sleeper who needs to feel extra cushion around your joints, the Plush Soft version of the Saatva Classic might work best for you. However, the Plush Soft model isn’t the softest mattress compared to other brands on the market.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

Other User Reviews

According to Saatva’s website, the Classic comes in at 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviews are generally positive, praising the bed’s high-quality construction and comfort. Some customers complained about issues with delivery or felt the bed didn’t hold up as long as they would’ve liked.

Read our full Saatva Classic mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Saatva Classic mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for more great options. 

DreamCloud Premier Rest – Best Soft Luxury Mattress

Best Luxury Mattress

DreamCloud Premier Rest

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The DreamCloud Premier Rest is a luxury hybrid mattress that aims to be comfortable but supportive. It features a quilted pillow top and has great motion isolation, responsiveness, and durability.

Nerd Score 3.4/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Soft: 4.5/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Luxury Mattress

DreamCloud Premier Rest

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The DreamCloud Premier Rest is a luxury hybrid mattress that aims to be comfortable but supportive. It features a quilted pillow top and has great motion isolation, responsiveness, and durability.

Nerd Score 3.4/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Soft: 4.5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

365 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
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Best Luxury Mattress

DreamCloud Premier Rest

The DreamCloud Premier Rest is a luxury hybrid mattress that aims to be comfortable but supportive. It features a quilted pillow top and has great motion isolation, responsiveness, and durability.

Nerd Score 3.4/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Soft: 4.5/10

Trial Period

365 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review

Pros of the DreamCloud Premier Rest
Great motion isolation
Generous trial and warranty
Cons of the DreamCloud Premier Rest
Expensive
Some off-gassing smell

The DreamCloud Premier Rest incorporates plush comfort foams and supportive coils in its construction. In addition to 4.5” of foam on top of the mattress, the Premier Rest has an extra 1” pillow top covered in cashmere (yes, cashmere) for an extra luxurious feel. We gave it a 4.5 out of 10 rating on our firmness scale, making it a soft mattress. 

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for you and your partner, the DreamCloud Premier Rest will fare well for both situations because it pairs luxurious comfort layers with 8.5” of durable, buoyant steel coils. This support layer keeps the spine aligned and can also elevate the weight of two sleepers over years of regular use. Plus, it allows for plenty of air circulation under the mattress, which is important for preventing body heat retention.  

To add to the top-tier experience, the Premier Rest mattress comes with a 365-night trial period and lifetime warranty.

What our testers say: “The DreamCloud Premier Rest has a softer firmness level, making it ideal for side sleepers and combination sleepers. Stomach sleepers might prefer a more firm feel.” – Becca, Editor & Mattress Tester

Other User Reviews

Coming in at 4.4 out of 5 stars on DreamCloud’s site, the DreamCloud Premier Rest has many positive reviews. Negatives focus around people not finding the bed pressure-relieving or cooling enough. But positive reviews say the bed is comfortable, provides support, and has strong edges.

Read our full DreamCloud Premier Rest mattress review to learn more. For more luxury options, check out our best luxury mattress roundup for more mattress models.

Nectar Premier Copper – Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers

Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers

Nectar Premier Copper Mattress

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The Nectar Premier Copper is a luxury foam mattress infused with special cooling materials such as gel, copper, and Phase Change Material. This mattress is a great option for back sleepers who love all-foam beds.

Nerd Score 3.6/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-soft: 5/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers

Nectar Premier Copper Mattress

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The Nectar Premier Copper is a luxury foam mattress infused with special cooling materials such as gel, copper, and Phase Change Material. This mattress is a great option for back sleepers who love all-foam beds.

Nerd Score 3.6/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Medium-soft: 5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

365 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
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Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers

Nectar Premier Copper Mattress

The Nectar Premier Copper is a luxury foam mattress infused with special cooling materials such as gel, copper, and Phase Change Material. This mattress is a great option for back sleepers who love all-foam beds.

Nerd Score 3.6/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Medium-soft: 5/10

Trial Period

365 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Pros of the Nectar Premier Copper
Cooling features
Decent responsiveness
Cons of the Nectar Premier Copper
Lacking edge support

The Nectar Premier Copper is the softest model offered by the brand. With layer after layer of memory foam that keeps you comfortable and supported, expect a doughy, impressionable bed that closely contours to the curves of your body. One of our favorite parts about this mattress, however, is that it’s great for hot sleepers.

The cover is infused with cooling copper, and the top layer of memory foam is mixed with gel and copper, which both regulate temperature. Extra cooling technologies and lots of cushioning are what make this a luxury mattress. It costs more than the other Nectar mattresses, but it’s worthwhile for those looking for a high-end memory foam mattress that rivals Tempur-Pedic.

When you go to buy, enjoy free shipping and returns, a whole year trial period to try it out risk-free, and a lifetime warranty.

What our testers say: “You’re going to sink pretty deeply into the 4″ comfort layer if you are an average-weight or lightweight sleeper. Heavyweight sleepers will feel this bed as even softer and most likely sink too far down to maintain good spinal alignment.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

Other User Reviews

According to Nectar’s site, the Nectar Premier Copper has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Negative reviews seem focused on personal preference that the bed is too soft or too firm, while others say their sheets can slide off the bed. Overall, the majority positive reviews find the bed comfortable and cooling.

Check out our Nectar Premier Copper mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Nectar Premier Copper mattress, check out our list of the best cooling mattresses for more great options.

WinkBeds GravityLux – Best Medium-Soft Mattress

Best Medium-Soft Mattress

WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress

winkbeds gravitylux hero

The GravityLux is a pressure-relieving, memory foam mattress that comes in three firmness options. It has a zoned transitional layer to provide enhanced support to the lower back and hips. The gel-infused quilted foam also sleeps cool.

Nerd Score 3.6/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Medium-Soft Mattress

WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress

winkbeds gravitylux hero

The GravityLux is a pressure-relieving, memory foam mattress that comes in three firmness options. It has a zoned transitional layer to provide enhanced support to the lower back and hips. The gel-infused quilted foam also sleeps cool.

Nerd Score 3.6/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
winkbeds gravitylux hero
Best Medium-Soft Mattress

WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress

The GravityLux is a pressure-relieving, memory foam mattress that comes in three firmness options. It has a zoned transitional layer to provide enhanced support to the lower back and hips. The gel-infused quilted foam also sleeps cool.

Nerd Score 3.6/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review

Pros of the WinkBeds GravityLux
Great pressure relief
Good for couples
Cons of the WinkBeds GravityLux
Expensive
Poor edge support

The WinkBeds GravityLux is a memory foam mattress with cooling layers. The top layer is made with aerated, open-cell foam, which makes the bed very soft and draws heat away from the body.

People who love softer mattresses often face a challenge when it comes to finding a mattress that sleeps cool, considering most plush mattresses are either all-foam or contain memory foam, which tends to sleep warmer. Thought the GravityLux is also a foam mattress, the layers focus on keeping you cool. Along with the open-cell foam layer, the mattress cover is made with tencel and is infused with gel. As with all WinkBeds products, it comes with free shipping, a lifetime warranty, and a 120-night risk-free trial.

What our testers say: “Whether you’re a lightweight or average-weight sleeper, you’ll be able to get that cloud-like softness and support from your WinkBeds. However, some heavyweight side sleepers may find the mattress a little bit too soft and sinking.” – Becca, Editor & Mattress Tester

Other User Reviews

On the WinkBeds website, the GravityLux scores a 4.8 stars out of 5. Positive reviews say that this bed helped relieve pain, especially in the back and joints. Negative reviews say that some of their pain wasn’t fully helped or that they were deterred by the “break-in period” for the bed.

Read our full GravityLux mattress review to learn more.

Helix Sunset – Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers

Best for Side Sleepers

Helix Sunset Mattress

Product Image

The Helix Sunset features a plush memory foam layer with a soft, contouring feel that's especially good for side sleepers. Memory foam purists will love its classic "sinking" effect that cradles the body as if you're sleeping "in" the mattress.

Nerd Score 3.8/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

100 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Soft: 5.5/10

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best for Side Sleepers

Helix Sunset Mattress

Product Image

The Helix Sunset features a plush memory foam layer with a soft, contouring feel that's especially good for side sleepers. Memory foam purists will love its classic "sinking" effect that cradles the body as if you're sleeping "in" the mattress.

Nerd Score 3.8/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Soft: 5.5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

100 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review
Product Image
Best for Side Sleepers

Helix Sunset Mattress

The Helix Sunset features a plush memory foam layer with a soft, contouring feel that's especially good for side sleepers. Memory foam purists will love its classic "sinking" effect that cradles the body as if you're sleeping "in" the mattress.

Nerd Score 3.8/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Soft: 5.5/10

Trial Period

100 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Watch Our Video Review

Pros of the Helix Sunset
Good pressure relief
Great responsiveness
Cons of the Helix Sunset
Not great for hot sleepers

There is a common misconception that soft mattresses lack adequate support. That you can not both sink deeply into a cloud-like bed and also have an aligned spine and pressure relief. Well, Helix set out on a mission to prove that you really can have it all, and with the Sunset, they delivered. 

At a 5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale, this soft mattress offers all that’s needed for side sleepers, like a doughy, impressionable surface that contours the shoulders and hips, while also adding zoned support technology for spinal alignment, layers engineered specifically to relieve pressure, as well as cooling features to prevent heat retention throughout the night. If you love an extra soft bed, but are wondering if it is really a good long-term choice for you, we love the Helix Sunset as an option that’ll keep you comfortable, but will also stay durable for years. 

As for policies, Helix offers free shipping, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty for this model.

What our testers say: “Side sleepers will love the Helix Sunset mattress because its soft construction allows the hips and shoulders to sink deep into the foam.” – Rachael, Editor & Mattress Tester

Other User Reviews

The Helix Sunset has 4.5 out of 5 stars on Helix’s website. Negative reviews say that customers found the bed too firm for their liking. The overwhelmingly positive reviews love the support that the mattress provides.

See our full Helix Sunset mattress review or Helix mattress reviews for more info. If you aren’t interested in the Helix Sunset mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for side sleepers for more great options.

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Soft Mattress for Combination Sleepers

Best Mattress for Combo Sleepers

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

brooklyn bedding signature hero image

The Signature Hybrid mattress comes in three firmness options and is made with a slew of proprietary materials. Brooklyn Bedding knows their mattresses.

Nerd Score 4.8/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Mattress for Combo Sleepers

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

brooklyn bedding signature hero image

The Signature Hybrid mattress comes in three firmness options and is made with a slew of proprietary materials. Brooklyn Bedding knows their mattresses.

Nerd Score 4.8/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
brooklyn bedding signature hero image
Best Mattress for Combo Sleepers

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

The Signature Hybrid mattress comes in three firmness options and is made with a slew of proprietary materials. Brooklyn Bedding knows their mattresses.

Nerd Score 4.8/5
Read Full Review

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review

Pros of the Brooklyn Signature Hybrid
Excellent motion isolation
Sleeps cool
Cons of the Brooklyn Signature Hybrid
Not for heavier stomach sleepers

The Brooklyn Signature Hybrid is an ideal mattress for combination sleepers who want to avoid feeling “stuck” in their bed.  Not only are the comfort and support foams highly responsive, but the pocketed coils at the base of the mattress are individually wrapped, adjusting to the slightest movements without causing motion to transfer across the mattress surface. 

Additionally, the Signature Hybrid is offered in three firmness levels—soft, medium, and firm—so you can choose the feel that best aligns with your primary sleeping positions (clearly we’re partial to the soft version). And, since it’s a hybrid mattress, you won’t have to worry about overheating from moving around while you sleep.

What our testers say: “Since the Brooklyn Signature Hybrid works well for both back and side sleepers over 130 lbs, it should be a good fit for combination sleepers with those primary positions. Also, the mattress limits motion transfer, allowing couples to shift positions without disturbing their partner.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

Other User Reviews

On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Brooklyn Signature has 4.7 out of 5 stars. Negative reviews mention the bed feels too soft for them or mention an unpleasant smell upon unboxing the bed. Positive reviews say the bed is comfortable and many say it has relieved troublesome pain.

Read our full Brooklyn Signature Hybrid mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Brooklyn Signature Hybrid mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for combination sleepers for more great options.

Nolah Signature – Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress

Best Memory Foam Mattress

Nolah Signature 12" Mattress

Nolah mattress in the studio

The Nolah Signature is a medium-firm all-foam mattress. It's an upgraded version of the original Nolah, and incorporates 20 percent more foam and an organic cotton cover.

Nerd Score 3.0/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Memory Foam Mattress

Nolah Signature 12" Mattress

Nolah mattress in the studio

The Nolah Signature is a medium-firm all-foam mattress. It's an upgraded version of the original Nolah, and incorporates 20 percent more foam and an organic cotton cover.

Nerd Score 3.0/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Nolah mattress in the studio
Best Memory Foam Mattress

Nolah Signature 12" Mattress

The Nolah Signature is a medium-firm all-foam mattress. It's an upgraded version of the original Nolah, and incorporates 20 percent more foam and an organic cotton cover.

Nerd Score 3.0/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6/10

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review

Pros of the Nolah Signature
Features a “hugging” feeling
Excellent pressure relief
Cons of the Nolah Signature
Not very cooling

The Nolah Signature is a memory foam mattress with a medium-soft feel (5/10). The Nolah’s foam construction can be thanked for its wonderful pressure relief and motion isolation, qualities that are important if you suffer from hip and shoulder pain or sleep with a partner, respectively. 

The Nolah Signature costs $1,599 for a Queen, which may seem a bit steep to you. However, the high-quality materials, thoughtful construction, and lifetime warranty certainly justify the cost. If you’re in the market for a soft memory foam mattress that does a great job of relieving pressure, then the Nolah Signature may be the mattress for you.

What our testers say: “The surface of the Nolah Signature is initially soft and cushioning, but quickly transitions into firm support. I’d compare the feel to sleeping ‘on’ the mattress rather than ‘in’ it.” – Meghan, Editor & Mattress Tester

Other User Reviews

The Nolah Signature gets a 4.8 out of 5 stars on Nolah’s website. Negative reviews seem to come from personal preference, saying the mattress is either too soft or too hard. But overall, positive reviews find the bed comfortable and pain-relieving.

See our full Nolah Signature mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Nolah Signature mattress, check out our list of the best memory foam mattresses for more great options.

Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Soft Mattress for Back Sleepers

Pros of the Bear Elite
Great pressure support
Good edge support
Cons of the Bear Elite
Could be out of someone’s budget

The Bear Elite Hybrid offers an ideal combo of pressure relief and support for back sleepers. Generally, we recommend soft mattresses to side sleepers, but back sleepers need a blend of softness for comfort and support for spinal alignment. 

Enter: the Bear Elite Hybrid. This mattress has a balanced feel that’s cushioning enough to provide pressure relief to your lumbar region, while also being supportive enough to keep back sleepers’ spines aligned. This is thanks to its hybrid construction of cushioning memory foam and sturdy pocketed coils.

What our testers say: “The Bear Elite has a good balance of sink and lift, meaning that the mattress’s hand-quilted top layer has enough cushioning to feel soft but also gives enough support from the coils below.” – Ashton, Editor & Mattress Tester

Other User Reviews

According to Bear’s website, the Bear Elite scores about 4.5 out of 5 stars. Most negative reviews have customers saying the bed was either too firm or too soft for their personal preference, while others noticed the lack of edge support. Overall, customers say that this bed helped them stay cool at night and helped relieve their pain.

Check out our Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for back sleepers for more great options. 

Layla Mattress – Best Soft King-Size Mattress

Best King-Size Mattress

Layla Mattress

Layla mattress

The original Layla memory foam mattress features two sides with different firmness options: one soft and one firm. Its copper-infused foam helps to cool the mattress and increase recovery times.

Nerd Score 3.6/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best King-Size Mattress

Layla Mattress

Layla mattress

The original Layla memory foam mattress features two sides with different firmness options: one soft and one firm. Its copper-infused foam helps to cool the mattress and increase recovery times.

Nerd Score 3.6/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Layla mattress
Best King-Size Mattress

Layla Mattress

The original Layla memory foam mattress features two sides with different firmness options: one soft and one firm. Its copper-infused foam helps to cool the mattress and increase recovery times.

Nerd Score 3.6/5
Read Full Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review

Pros of the Layla
Multiple firmness options
Sleeps cool
Cons of the Layla
Not durable enough for heavyweight sleepers

Layla is a flippable mattress made with copper-infused memory foam. The mattress is double-sided, which allows sleepers to have two options within the same mattress. One side of the Layla is medium-soft, which gives sleepers some pressure-relieving, and the other side is firm which is better for support. 

The cover of the mattress will keep you cool if you tend to heat up at night, no matter which side you choose. If you are looking for a soft mattress, are a side sleeper and are light to average weight, the medium-soft side of the Layla will be good for you. If you are a heavier sleeper, the firm side of the mattress may still provide enough softness for your liking. The copper also kills bacteria naturally, helping to extend Layla’s lifespan.

What our testers say: “When I looked at the pressure relief map, I saw great results for back sleepers on both the soft and firm sides: no pressure in sight.” – Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

Other User Reviews

On the Layla site, the Layla has an overall 4.5 out of 5 stars. Negative reviews seem to be the result of personal preference, saying the bed is either too firm or too soft, regardless of which side customers prefer. The majority positive reviews praise the bed for its comfortability and pain relief capabilities.

Read our full Layla mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Layla mattress, check out our list of the best king-size mattresses for more great options.

What It Means for a Mattress to Be Soft

Mattress softness is subjective, but only to a point. It is true that what feels soft to you may feel firm to somebody else, but most mattress companies, as well as we here at Mattress Nerd, grade mattress firmness on a scale of 1 to 10. If a mattress falls under a 5/10 on that scale, then it is considered soft. If you think you’re someone who would prefer a soft mattress, take a look below at some factors to consider before you make any final decisions. 

Related: Soft vs. Firm Mattresses

Is a Soft Mattress Still Supportive? 

Firmness and support are two of the most important aspects to consider when mattress shopping, but they can be easily confused. While interrelated, they should be thought of separately. Most people assume that a mattress must be firm to provide support, but it’s possible to find a supportive mattress that meets your pressure relief needs while still feeling soft to the touch. 

Firmness refers to the feel of a mattress with regard to comfort. While every individual has a subjective definition of what soft and firm mean, the industry uses a scale of 1 to 10 in an attempt to objectify this quality, with one being extremely soft and 10 being extremely firm. To put it simply, firmness is the feeling you get when you first lie on the mattress.

Support refers to how well a mattress will support your spinal alignment and is not a subjective quality. In other words, when you’re lying in your preferred sleeping position, is your spine straight? Mattresses that feel hard to the touch can offer just as much pressure point relief and spinal support as a mattress that feels soft to the touch.

Other Things To Consider 

Spine Alignment

If you are someone who suffers from back pain, sinking into a soft mattress may sound like a dream to you. However, soft beds can actually cause your spine to rest out of alignment, especially for stomach and back sleepers. If you’re lightweight or primarily a side sleeper, this may not be an issue for you. If you do sleep on your back and are heavier than average, check out our best mattresses for back sleepers list.

Motion Transfer

If you sleep with a partner, pet, or child, you know that motion isolation is one of the most important factors when mattress shopping. Soft mattresses vary in their ability to suit couples but typically do well. If a mattress is too soft however, you may find yourself feeling stuck, making moving around more difficult, disturbing your partner on the other side of the bed. Trying to find a perfect mattress for you and your partner? Check out our best mattresses for couples page.

Edge Support

Soft mattresses provide a plush, sinking feeling that many people find very comforting, but this can also result in a lack of edge support.

Edge support measures the perimeter of a bed’s ability to remain stable under your weight. This is an important quality if you like to sit on the edge of your bed, or spread out and take up a lot of surface area as you sleep. 

Though softer mattresses are prone to sinkage at the edges, a lot of companies specifically address this issue by adding sturdy blocks of foam around the interior perimeter of the bed. When shopping for your soft mattress, keep an eye out for this in mattress construction descriptions.  

Responsiveness

If you are a notably restless sleeper who switches positions frequently, then responsiveness is a key factor for you. High responsiveness is a quality that is usually associated with firmer mattresses. Basically, it is what allows you to switch positions easily and sink into new ones quickly. 

Since soft mattresses do allow for sinkage, getting cozy in a new position usually isn’t a problem, but switching out of it may be slightly more difficult than it would be on a different firmness

Materials

Foam

What is a foam mattress? They are seen as some of the most popular soft mattresses. Foam mattresses are constructed of memory foam, polyurethane foam, or sometimes a mixture of both.  Are memory foam mattresses soft? A traditional foam bed will give sleepers a more “sinking” feeling, often associated with a soft feeling. They are not necessarily plush, but usually have very responsive profiles and most often range from soft to medium-firm.

MemoryFoam

Latex

What is a Latex Mattress? Latex is a rubbery substance that is combined with foam to create a bouncy, supportive surface on a mattress. They are popular for using “all-natural” materials.  Are latex mattresses soft? Latex beds are typically the least likely to be thought of as “soft” or “plush.” If you are looking for a soft mattress, opt for Talalay latex over Dunlop, as Dunlop is much denser and Talalay has a softer feel. The softness of a latex mattress will usually depend on the top comfort layer.

Latex

Innerspring

What are Innerspings? Innerspring mattresses have coils at the base of the bed that gives a mattress that traditional bounce so many of us are familiar with. These mattresses often have better edge support, making them an excellent choice for couples.  Are innerspring mattresses soft? Similarly to latex mattresses, an Innerspring bed is not the first thing most people think of when looking for a soft mattress. Many mattress companies are adding thick, comfort layers to give these traditionally more firm and supportive beds a softer, plush feeling. Related: Best Innerspring Mattresses

Innersprings

Hybrid

What is a Hybrid Mattress? A hybrid mattress combines the support and bounce of coils with the comfort and contouring of memory foam. This makes them more desirable for people with aches and pains who like a close contour, but need increased support to keep their spines aligned.  Are hybrid mattresses soft?  They can be! Hybrid mattresses have a comfort layer on top of their coil base. Depending on how thick that comfort layer is, and what it is made of will dictate how firm, or soft, they are. Related: Best Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid 1

Are Soft Mattresses Good for Cooling?

It depends on several factors, the most important of which is the construction of the mattress. Soft mattresses are usually made with one or several foam layers, which is known to trap heat more than a type of mattress made exclusively with, say, natural latex or innersprings

That is not to say, however, that a soft mattress cannot be cool. Many companies incorporate high-quality gel memory foam into their mattresses, which helps to disperse body heat rather than store it. If you’re a hot sleeper who loves a soft mattress, make sure you keep an eye out for this material.

There are also ways to enhance the cooling abilities of your new mattress. Consider purchasing cooling sheets, or even one of our best cooling mattress toppers. The addition of these sleep accessories can make a world of difference when it comes to temperature regulation. Looking for more mattress options? Check out our Best Cooling Mattresses page.

Who is a Soft Mattress Best For? 

Shoppers often see the words “soft” or “comfortable” and allow this advertising to heavily influence their choice. After all, phrases like “sleeping on a cloud” are often associated with deep REM sleep, which is necessary in getting the amount of sleep that you need. However, many buyers find that soft mattresses are actually too soft, failing to provide the support they need. Here’s who should sleep on a soft mattress:

Side Sleepers

This sleeping position creates pressure points at the hips and shoulders, and a soft mattress will alleviate pain in these areas with contour. Aim for a firmness level in the 4 to 5 range. A soft bed can also help alleviate numbness and tingling inside sleepers’ arms, which can get tucked beneath the body in this sleeping position. Our best mattresses for side sleepers can provide some more information on this topic.

Lightweight Sleepers

When it comes to lightweight sleepers, it’s helpful to think of taking the firmness scale needs of an average sleeper and knocking them down a few levels. People with a lower body weight won’t sink into a firm mattress, so soft mattresses can provide the comfort and pressure relief they desire. We recommend mattress firmnesses of 1 to 5 for lightweight sleepers. 

Couples

If you or your sleep partner tosses and turners throughout the night, then one of you has likely experienced the frustration that comes with being woken up by someone else’s movements. Of all the firmness options, soft mattresses are apt to absorb movements rather than allowing them to spread across the surface—making for a sounder night sleep for you and your partner. Check out our list of some of the best mattresses for couples.

Who Should Avoid a Soft Mattress?

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleepers represent the smallest percentage of sleepers in the country, and they require a rather unique set-up in order to achieve the healthiest sleep. In order to keep their hips from sinking too much and throwing their spines out of alignment, stomach sleepers need a sturdy, firm mattress—typically made with a layer of coils or a base layer of high-density support foam. 

If you sleep on your stomach, we recommend something firmer than the soft mattresses included on this list. Take a look at our best mattresses for stomach sleepers to see some of our favorites.

Big & Tall Sleepers

The opposite of lightweight sleepers, heavyweight, and naturally larger-bodied individuals may feel swallowed and unsupported by a mattress that’s too soft. We recommend knocking up the firmness scale for this body type, with better firmnesses found in the 7 to 10 range. The larger you are, the thicker and more firm your mattress will need to be in order to provide deep compression support.  Check out our Best Mattresses for Heavy People for more options.

Individuals with Lower Back Pain

On a very soft mattress, the spine can become misaligned and cause parts of the body, especially the low back and neck, to sink down. This is why we generally don’t recommend mattresses on the very soft side of the firmness scale to individuals struggling with low back pain. Medium-firm or firm mattresses will better suit these sleepers, as you can see in our best mattresses for back pain roundup.

Accessories for Soft Mattresses 

Mattress Toppers 

Typically, if you are shopping specifically for a soft mattress you may not need a mattress topper. However, a topper could be useful if you like a softer mattress but need a firmer base for spinal support. You can find great mattress toppers that are available as pillow-top additions, filled with down feathers, constructed with memory foam, and various other versions. 

Pillows 

If you are looking for a lofty, fluffy pillow to compliment your new soft mattress you may want to reconsider. Since you will already be deeper into your mattress, you will likely want a lower soft, soft pillow. Avoid anything too firm or overly fluffy. 

Related: Best Pillows

Benefits of Sleeping On A Soft Mattresses

They’re soft, comfortable, and luxurious to the touch, which makes you look forward to curling up in bed every evening. When made with high-quality materials, they provide an almost hotel-like feel, and what’s not to love about that?

Like we’ve mentioned, soft mattresses are helpful for aligning the spine of side sleepers, especially average and lightweight individuals. The give of the top layers in these mattresses allows the shoulders and hips adequate relief to be able to relax in this position without sinking down too much. Most people sleeping on their sides, which is a rather large percentage of the population, will find relief in a soft or medium-soft bed, depending on their weight.

Soft mattresses can help with general back pain, and are especially good mattresses for seniors who experience joint problems. The sweet spot here will be finding a mattress that’s adequately supportive, keeping your spine in a neutral position, with a softness that feels good to you. Those with back pain who want a mattress on the soft side should ensure the materials used are durable, as some soft mattresses break down more quickly over time, causing uncomfortable sinkage and improper spinal alignment. For further help in your shopping process, visit our mattress buying guide.

Shopping for Mattresses Online

The concept of online shopping has been around for a while now, but there are so many factors to consider when making the right mattress purchase it can be difficult to know what’s best for your individual needs. Have no fear! Here’s everything you need to know.

Online vs In-Store

Department stores, retail stores, and plain old mattress stores are all great options for purchasing a mattress in person. Especially when it comes to a mattress store, you easily have your questions answered and find expert advice from a knowledgable salesman. There are also opportunities to try out the mattress in-store so you can make sure the feel works for you.

While there are a number of perks to buying in-store, there are many others that come with online shopping. You can choose from any and all brands that ship to your home rather than those that are on display in a store. Even better, warranties and sleep trials are there to help protect your mattress purchase.

Related: Should You Buy a Mattress Online or In-Store?

Warranties

Warranties are an extremely important consideration. They can tell a bit about a company’s confidence in its product, guaranteeing buyers they won’t have to buy another mattress if they find any defects. Because of this, we suggest finding a mattress with a lengthy warranty. It’s also important to keep in mind that each company’s policy is different, so we recommend reading the fine print before making a purchase dependent on a warranty.

Related: What is a Mattress Warranty?

Sleep Trials

Sleep trials are crucial for online shopping. The sleep trial allows you to test a mattress out for free and ensure it fits your preferences and needs. Like warranties, every company has a different sleep trial policy, and we do recommend you select a longer trial period so you have sufficient time to return the mattress if needed.

Related: What is a Sleep Trial?

Shipping and Returns

As with warranties and sleep trials, it’s important to check a company’s individual policies for shipping and returns. Some companies have free shipping and returns, others don’t. Additionally, it’s important to make sure the company you’re purchasing a bed from actually ships to your state or country. If you’re wanting to avoid setting up your mattress, find a bed that comes with an option for white-glove delivery.

Related: Best Online Mattress

Finding Deals

A great mattress can make for an incredible long-term investment, but looking at the cost of a mattress is intimidating. Here are some tips on how to navigate discounts, holiday sales, and everything in between.

The Best Times to Buy a Mattress

Holiday sales make for some of the best times to buy a mattress. President’s Day (February), Memorial Day (May), Labor Day (September), Cyber 5 (Thanksgiving to Cyber Monday), and Christmas are where some of the best mattress deals take place.

Searching for Coupons

Let us help you with that! We’ve got a page entirely dedicated to the best mattress deals of 2024.

Utilizing Our Mattress Roundups and Reviews

We’ve tested many, many different mattresses in order to help you get the best night’s sleep possible. In our reviews and roundups, you can easily compare prices of models and search for options that get you the best mattress for the money. For more, check out our articles on the best affordable mattresses as well as the best mattresses under $1,000.

FAQ

What is the best soft mattress?

Because all of us have different body types, sleep in different positions at night, and prefer different feels, there is no one-size-fits-all “best soft mattress.” However, if we had to choose, we would go with the Puffy Royal Hybrid. Overall, this bed provides a combination of the features people look for most in a soft mattress: durability, quietness, and motion isolation. Not only that, but the Puffy Royal Hybrid is great for back pain and works especially well for side sleeping and back sleeping.

Is it better to sleep on a harder or softer mattress?

It all depends on your preferred sleeping position! Side sleepers are going to want a softer mattress for contouring and pressure-relief, stomach sleepers are going to need a firmer mattress for additional support, and back sleepers something in between. In the end, it’s important to feel both comfortable and supported on a mattress, and to replace an old mattress causing you discomfort.

What is considered a soft mattress?

The industry standard for mattress firmness is ranked on a scale of 10, and a firmness of 6.5/10 is considered to be medium-firm. A soft mattress fits on the lower end of this scale, with a true soft mattress being about a 4/10.

What softness of mattress is best for back pain?

Again, this answer is dependent on your preferred sleep position. The mattress that’s good for back pain is going to be one that properly supports you in your sleeping position and helps promote proper spinal alignment. However, it’s important to consider body type as well, since a lightweight side sleeper is going to need a softer mattress than a heavier side sleeper. When in doubt, we suggest a medium-firm construction, which combines comfort and support.

Recap of the Top Rated Soft Mattresses

MattressAward
Puffy Royal HybridNerd’s Pick
Saatva ClassicBest Soft Hybrid Mattress
DreamCloud Premier RestBest Soft Luxury Mattress
Nectar Premier CopperBest for Hot Sleepers
WinkBeds GravityLuxBest Medium-Soft Mattress
Helix SunsetBest for Side Sleepers
Brooklyn Bedding Signature HybridBest for Combination Sleepers
Nolah SignatureBest Soft Memory Foam Mattress
Bear Elite HybridBest Soft Mattress for Back Sleepers
Layla Memory FoamBest Soft King-Size Mattress

Dr. Tom Ingegno is part of our panel of medical expert contributors on the subject of sleep health. They provide important perspectives on the topics we discuss to help make our content as accurate and dependable as possible. They do not personally endorse any products, nor are they associated with any brands featured in our review content.