Best Floor Mattresses

Floor mattresses are a handy piece of furniture to own. They’re incredibly versatile, easy to transport, and often take up very little storage space. Some people choose to use floor mattresses for guests or travel, while others prefer them over traditional mattresses. They’re popular in Japan as well as in tiny apartments with limited floor space.

Certain models can be placed directly on the floor, while others should be used with a mat or base that allows for increased airflow. We reviewed dozens in order to bring you the best floor mattresses available today. We tested and scored each model according to comfort, support, and value, among a range of other factors. You’ll discover which floor mattresses will suit your particular needs as well as what to look for when shopping for this style of bed.

Our Recommendations

Why It’s Best Overall

The Folding Foam Bed from The Futon Shop has a tri-fold construction that’s easy to store away, but it’s thick enough that it offers a bit more support than other packable beds. It’s a great pick if you want a floor mattress that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for versatility. 

You can use this floor mattress from The Futon Shop in many settings and applications. It works equally well when used as a guest bed, ottoman, camping bed, or futon cushion. You can pick from three types of foam that all have a firm (7) feel. 

How It Performed

The three foam options are high-density soy foam, soy foam blended with gel-infused memory foam, and a soy foam and latex blend. We found that each option had a very similar performance in most of our tests, but that side sleepers tended to favor the memory foam and soy foam blend because it’s a bit softer underneath the shoulders and hips.

Back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds preferred the other two blends over the memory foam blend, as they provide a bit more structure. Side sleepers and people under 130 pounds found it a bit too firm to provide the type of cushioning and pressure relief that those groups enjoy. Stomach sleepers need the strongest support to keep their spines from curving too much, which the Folding Foam Bed delivers. 

What It’s Made Of

Most foam mattresses and cushions absorb body heat and don’t breathe well enough to keep hot sleepers cool throughout the night. We found that this model has above-average temperature control for a foam mattress, thanks to its 5-inch profile and foam blends. The latex and gel-infused memory foam options also help ensure that excess heat dissipates. 

All three models also provide adequate motion isolation, as the foam prevents movement from traveling across the bed. This can be particularly helpful if couples use the mattress. The mattress has a tri-fold design that allows you to use it for more than just a floor bed. It stacks easily on top of itself to work as an ottoman or cushion. It’s also an excellent choice if you need a cushion for a futon, daybed, or wide lounge chair. 

The Futon Shop offers this mattress in four sizes and more than 10 colors. It comes with a seven-year warranty as well as a 30-night sleep trial. Shipping is free within the contiguous U.S.

The NeuType Futon Mattress Sleeping Mat has a unique construction that rolls up and fits into a bag for easy storage. It’s priced quite competitively and is an excellent option if you want a versatile floor mattress with a mat-style design. 

How It Performed

On the whole, stomach and back sleepers on our team enjoyed this mattress more than side sleepers. While it has a medium firmness level, it’s only 4 inches thick and doesn’t cushion hips enough for side sleepers who weigh under 230 pounds. 

Back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds found that it provides enough comfort and support to keep the spine aligned, but our testers noted that it’s better suited to traveling and occasional use than it is as an everyday mattress. It has a medium firmness level that corresponds to 5 out of 10 on our firmness scale. 

What It’s Made Of

The mat has multiple layers that are all quilted together. Polyester padding surrounds the high-density foam core to add a bit of cushioning. The cover is machine-washable and made from microfiber fabric that’s soft and fairly breathable. Testers remarked that this floor mattress controlled temperature well and didn’t feel too hot throughout the night.

Though this mat is made primarily of foam, it’s pretty easy to move around on without feeling like you’re sinking into the mattress. It’s a great option for a guest bed, camping mat, or play mat for kids. It’s also available in more than a dozen color options and three sizes. The entire mattress rolls up to fit into the included carrying case. 

Free shipping is available for Amazon Prime customers.

The All Natural Latex and Wool Shikibuton Futon Mattress from The Futon Shop blends luxury and versatility into an attractive package. This floor mattress rolls up for simple storage and is a suitable choice for multiple settings. 

How It Performed

The mattress has a medium firm feel that ranks as a 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale. Stomach sleepers above 130 pounds liked this mattress the most during our performance testing. It kept their spines evenly supported and prevented them from curving. Side and back sleepers who weigh more than 230 also found it adequate, but it’s too firm and lacks enough cushioning for those below this weight range. 

Another reason that stomach sleepers preferred this model is because the materials keep you situated comfortably atop the mattress. When a mattress is too soft for stomach sleepers, they can’t move on top of the bed and begin to sink into its layers, which isn’t comfortable for extended amounts of time.

What It’s Made Of

This mattress features a 2-inch Dunlop latex core that’s surrounded by wool batting. The cover is crafted from organic cotton that’s breathable and soft to the touch. Together, these three components work exceptionally well at regulating temperature. While using this mattress, our testers noticed very little heat retention and even the hottest sleepers on our team found this model breathable enough for regular use. 

Though this mattress has a higher price-point than other floor mattresses, its materials and construction are worth the cost if you’re looking for a long-lasting model. It performed well during our durability testing and also comes with a seven-year warranty. 

The Futon Shop only offers this mattress in natural white, but you can buy it in seven sizes including several hard to find dimensions like Eastern king. Shoppers in the U.S. qualify for free shipping and 30-day returns.

The MAXYOYO Japanese Floor Mattress is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a comfortable floor mattress that stows away easily. This is a mat-style model that fits into its accompanying storage bag, making it a worthwhile investment if you live in a small space or need a travel mattress.  

How It Performed

This is a firm (7) mattress that provides enough support for stomach sleepers, particularly those who weigh above 130 pounds. Back sleepers on our team who weigh more than 230 pounds also complimented this model’s attention to spinal support. For side sleepers and back sleepers under 230 pounds, this model is too firm and may cause pressure points to form. 

Our testing team gave this model above-average motion isolation scores, which is beneficial for couples and light sleepers. The foam support core isolates motion well enough that you shouldn’t notice too much if your partner moves on their side of the bed. 

What It’s Made Of

This model has a high-density foam core that’s sandwiched by layers of soft polyester on both sides. It’s 4 inches tall and has stitching extending through each layer to keep the components from shifting or bunching. 

The polyester shell comes in more than 25 colors and patterns, many of which are designed with kids in mind. It didn’t score top marks during durability testing, but it’s priced quite competitively and is worth considering if you’re looking for an affordable floor mattress. Amazon Prime shoppers receive free shipping. 

The Milliard Folding Mattress with Washable Cover is one of the most portable floor mattresses our team tested. It has a tri-fold design that’s easy to store and doesn’t take up much room, making it an excellent option to travel with. 

How It Performed

This 4-inch floor mattress isn’t a substitute for your everyday mattress, but it’s comfortable and supportive enough for occasional use. Our testers who weigh over 130 pounds favored this model more than those under 130 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers preferred it over side sleepers because its medium firm (6) feel has the stronger support that these two sleeper types require. 

This model isolated motion effectively during our performance testing. The foam absorbs excessive movement, which is an added bonus for couples who often disturb each other when sleeping. 

What It’s Made Of

The mattress is made from three pieces of connected polyfoam that are wrapped in bamboo-derived jacquard fabric. This soft cover zips off easily so that you can machine-wash it when necessary. The cover’s bottom has an anti-slip coating that helps prevent the mattress from moving when it’s placed on slippery surfaces like hardwood floors. 

You can buy this mattress in five affordable sizes including cot, which fits well inside a camping tent. Old mattress removal is available for an additional fee, as is a 10-year protection plan. It’s available through Amazon, where Prime customers get free shipping. 

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

If you’re not sure you’ve found a bed that suits your needs, you can narrow down your search by reviewing our recommendations by mattress feel.

What Is a Floor Mattress?

A floor mattress is a portable sleep surface designed for use on the floor. Most models fold or roll up for easy storage. They also tend to be thinner and lighter than conventional mattresses, further enhancing their portability. 

Floor mattresses are traditional in Japan, but they’re also popular with anyone wanting to conserve space in an apartment, accommodate guests, or bring their own sleep surface while traveling.

How to Choose a Floor Mattress

While floor mattresses can be very convenient and versatile, it’s important to find a model that fits your needs. We’ll break down what to look for, what types of floor mattresses are available, and the potential pros and cons. 

What to Look For in a Floor Mattress

Along with being mindful of your needs, there are several other factors to consider when purchasing a floor mattress. You may find that some companies use misleading language when describing their products. Marketing claims frequently aim to make mattress models seem ideal for everyone, but no option is perfect for all sleepers. Focusing on the construction of the mattress can help you make an informed choice. 

Price

For a budget-conscious mattress shopper, a floor mattress can be a good alternative to a more traditional model. Many floor mattresses range between $100 and $250. However, luxury models can reach over $1,000.

Portability and Storage

Due to their lightweight design and ability to fold or roll up, floor mattresses are easy to move and store. If you want a mattress you can put away when not in use, a floor mattress is a top choice. 

Cleaning and Care

Most floor mattresses are not machine-washable. That said, some come with removable, washable covers. You can usually vacuum the mattress itself to get rid of dust and debris. Following the manufacturer’s care instructions can help prevent damage.

Thickness

Most floor mattresses range between 2 and 6 inches thick, making them significantly thinner than the average mattress. 

Anti-Slip Base

If you frequently change positions while sleeping, a floor mattress placed directly on a smooth floor may slide around. Some mattresses have anti-slip surfaces on their undersides to prevent them from moving. However, you can also use a separate non-slip or rubber pad to achieve the same effect. 

Quality Materials

Floor mattresses that consist of quality materials are often more durable. Common floor mattress materials include polyfoam, memory foam, latex, cotton, and polyester. Most contain some combination of these materials. 

Firmness Level

Because floor mattresses are relatively thin and sit directly on the floor, most are medium firm to firm. This firmness level is especially popular with back and stomach sleepers. Thicker floor mattresses are often on the softer end of the range since more material separates the sleeper from the floor. Side sleepers typically prefer thicker, softer models. 

Pressure Relief

Sleepers often experience pressure around areas of their bodies that press harder against the sleep surface. A floor mattress’ ability to relieve pressure depends largely on its thickness and how it redistributes the sleeper’s weight. Many thin floor mattresses offer minimal pressure relief, which is often comfortable for back and stomach sleepers. Side sleepers frequently prefer thicker floor mattresses with more room for their hips and shoulders to sink in.

Motion Isolation

Floor mattresses with thicker foam layers tend to absorb motion, preventing vibrations from spreading to the other side of the sleep surface. Motion isolation is particularly important for people who have a sleep partner who frequently changes positions.

Temperature Regulation

Depending on its materials and design, a mattress may either trap heat or help regulate temperature. Floor mattresses consisting of cotton or latex tend to be highly breathable. Foam and polyester typically allow less air circulation. If you sleep hot, using a platform or slatted base may provide better temperature regulation. 

Edge Support

Because floor mattresses are relatively thin, most sleepers are unlikely to notice if they lack edge support. That said, it may be more pronounced in thicker foam models. A weak edge could limit the usable surface area or make sleepers feel like they may accidentally roll onto the floor. 

Contouring

Contouring refers to how a mattress shapes around your body. This quality is closely associated with pressure relief. Floor mattresses tend to be firmer and thinner, meaning they generally have less contouring. While this can limit pressure relief, it can also enhance ease of movement. If contouring is a high priority for you, consider a thicker foam floor mattress. 

What Types of Floor Mattresses Are Available?

There are two main types of floor mattresses: rollable and foldable. Each is designed for storability and portability. When determining which option better fits your needs, there are a few distinctions to consider. 

Rollable

Rollable floor mattresses are usually on the thin side. They frequently consist of a single layer of foam encased in a non-removable cover. This makes them especially easy to store and transport. However, they may be firmer, less contouring, and more difficult to clean. Back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and travelers might favor rollable models. 

Foldable

A foldable floor mattress is divided into two or three sections that fold together for storage. Foldable floor mattresses tend to be a bit thicker than rollable models.They frequently include multilayer designs, removable covers, and anti-slip bases. While this combination may make a floor mattress pricier and more difficult to transport, it often contributes to greater contouring and easier care. Side sleepers and those seeking a floor mattress for regular home use might prefer this design. 

Pros and Cons of Floor Mattresses

Floor mattresses are a versatile option suitable for tight spaces, changing needs, and on-the-go lifestyles. While they carry many potential advantages, they also have some drawbacks.

For anyone looking for a portable or storable sleep surface, the benefits of a floor mattress are obvious. Because floor mattresses are usually thin and firm, they may be particularly comfortable for stomach sleepers and back sleepers who need even support. A floor mattress is also often more budget-friendly than traditional models.

That said, their low-profile designs aren’t ideal for everyone. Side sleepers might find floor mattresses too firm, contributing to pressure buildup around their shoulders and hips. Individuals with mobility issues may also struggle to get in and out of bed, and maintaining a hygienic sleep surface can be more challenging. 

Floor Mattresses

Pros	Cons
Highly portable for convenient travel Easy to store Typically affordable	Often lack contouring and pressure relief People with mobility issues may find it harder to access a floor mattress Can accumulate dust and debris

Floor Mattresses vs. Air Mattresses

While a temporary air mattress is designed to be placed on the floor, it is quite different from a floor mattress. Inflatable air mattresses are typically made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) casing. They come with internal or external air pumps that are either electric or battery-powered. 

Floor Mattress vs. Air Mattress

Floor Mattresses	Air Mattresses
Foldable or rollable Contain one or more layers of cushioning materials Tend to feel firm Generally 2 to 6 inches thick	Pumped with air for use Some have a coil system for bounce and support Firmness may be adjustable Up to 20 inches thick