When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Products or services may be offered by an affiliated entity. Learn more.
Best Mattress for Hip Pain of 2026
Lab Tested Picks for Pain Relief
For those experiencing hip pain, a mattress that features durable construction and pressure-relieving materials can help ensure your hips receive the right balance of cushioning and support. In this guide, we break down how to find the best fit for your needs and share our top-rated mattresses for hip pain.
Our Top Picks
Best Mattress Overall
:Helix Midnight Luxe
Shop Now
Most Comfortable Mattress
:Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Shop Now
Best Value Mattress
:Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
Shop Now
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
:Softer WinkBed
Shop Now
Best Mattress for Seniors
:Saatva Rx
Shop Now
Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment
:Nolah Evolution 15
Shop Now
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
:Bear Elite Ultra Hybrid
Shop Now
Best Hybrid Mattress for Hip Pain
:Endy Hybrid
Shop Now
Best Mattress Firmness Options
:DLX Premier Hybrid
Shop Now
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
:Lull Original Premium
Shop Now
Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers
:Layla Hybrid
Shop Now
Best Mattress Deals Happening Now
- Save $652 — Helix Midnight Luxe
$1,847(List Price $2,499) - Save $748 — Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
$1,719(List Price $2,467) - Save $150 — Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
$449(List Price $599) - Save $771 — Softer WinkBed
$1,799(List Price $2,570) - Save $300 — Saatva Rx
$3,099(List Price $3,399)
How We Tested the Best Mattresses for Hip Pain
Testing Criteria
Sleepers with hip pain should look for a bed that will keep their bodies aligned to avoid placing extra pressure on the joints. Keeping this in mind, our search for the best mattresses for hip pain examined the following criteria:
- Pressure relief and zoned support: It’s crucial that mattresses for sleepers with hip pain reduce the pressure specifically on the hips and other common pressure points. A bed with top-tier pressure relief will offer great spinal alignment, too (more on that below).
- Optimal support for spinal alignment: A mattress that contours the body and keeps the spine straight aligned will also take pressure off the hips, especially for side and back sleepers. Memory foam and latex beds are particularly great for contouring to the body and reducing pressure buildup.
- Zoned construction: The mattress’s construction should provide extra support in targeted areas where sleepers with hip pain need it, such as the neck and shoulders. In this case, the best mattresses for hip pain may have zoned support with enhanced cushioning around the hips and firmer support at the lower back and shoulders.
How We Evaluated
When choosing the best mattresses for hip pain, we started by combing through our database of over 1,000 mattresses. We then ran them through a filter to identify those with excellent pressure relief and zoned support to address hip pain. We also factored in the following:
- Overall comfort
- Medium-firm options
- Durability and reliable support
Our testers, who represent a wide range of body types and preferred sleep positions, are pros at evaluating how a mattress offers pain relief in specific areas. They tested each option out, provided scores for key performance categories like motion isolation, edge support, and temperature regulation. After that, they assigned accolades, then went over their findings and determined which mattresses should be added to our roundup.
Our Testing Team

Logan Foley
Editorial Director
Full Bio

Mary Fenton
Head of Product Content
Full Bio

Jeremy Klein
Senior Product Testing Manager
Full Bio

Brad Nehring
Senior Product Analyst
Full Bio

Colin Simpson
Product Research Manager
Full Bio
Best Mattress Overall: Helix Midnight Luxe
Best Mattress Overall
9.7/10Test Lab Score
Helix Midnight Luxe
A premium quality, hybrid mattress created with side sleepers in mind.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side and back sleepers under 230 pounds who have hip pain.
- Feel: Plush, close-conforming memory foam, breathable quilted pillow-top, foam conforms closely to the body and gives a hugging sensation.
- What It’s Made Of: The Midnight Luxe is a hybrid, containing a quilted pillow top, two different memory foam layers, and coils in the core.
- What We Don’t Like: A bit expensive, starting around $1,000.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance



The Helix Midnight Luxe is specifically tailored to side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. That said, our tests show the balanced feel and strong support make this mattress suitable to a wide range of people across different body types and sleep positions.
How It Performs
Most Comfortable Mattress: Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Most Comfortable Mattress
9.0/10Test Lab Score
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
A foam hybrid that cushions your body without trapping heat.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side and back sleepers across all weight groups, couples, and people who run hot in bed.
- Feel: You can choose from medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (7) designs.
- What It’s Made Of: Comfort layers of gel-infused polyfoam, polyfoam, and transitional foam over three-zone coils and high-density base foam.
- What We Don’t Like: Off-gassing odor can be overwhelming for the first few days after unboxing, and the high profile necessitates a deep-pocket fitted sheet.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
If you and your partner are in the market for a new mattress, the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid checks off a lot of important boxes for co-sleepers. Thick foam layers absorb movement to ensure excellent motion isolation, but the coils are fairly responsive and reinforced along the perimeter to bolster the edges and allow you to use the entire sleep surface. Three firmness options are available, all offering a nice balance of cushioning, support, and bounce.
How It Performs
Best Value Mattress: Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
Best Value Mattress
8.6/10Test Lab Score
Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
Hugs and soothes pressure points for restful sleep.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds and back sleepers up to 230 pounds. Also a good option for couples and hot sleepers.
- Feel: Medium firm (6) with plush comfort layers that create memory foam’s signature “hug” sensation. Support layers provide enough pushback to keep you on an even plane. Some warmth in the top foam layers, but copper fiber infusions offset a fair amount of heat.
- What It’s Made Of: Comfort system contains adaptive polyfoam, two memory foam layers, and zoned transitional polyfoam. Two high-density polyfoam in the support core. GlacioTex cover to dissipate heat.
- What We Don’t Like: Not enough support for stomach sleepers who weigh 130 pounds or more. Initial odors, while temporary, can be intense.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Brooklyn Bedding’s CopperFlex Memory Foam is one example of a well-crafted mattress that’s also easy on your wallet. Plush memory foam layers provide next-level cushioning beneath the surface and — thanks to cooling copper infusions — also resist heat buildup fairly well. Zoned transitional foam and dense support layers help ensure you won’t sink too deeply into the mattress.
How It Performs
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers: Softer WinkBed
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
8.9/10Test Lab Score
Softer WinkBed
High end hybrid bed providing ample support, cushion, and cool sleep.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: People with hip pain, side and back sleepers under 230 pounds, and hot sleepers.
- Feel: Bed from a 5-star hotel — plush and airy on the surface but bouncy and supportive. Regulates temperature well and is really easy to move around in.
- What It’s Made Of: Plush Euro-top, thin foam layers, and coil support core.
- What We Don’t Like: Won’t relieve quite as much pressure as a bed with thicker memory foam layers.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance


Side sleepers with hip pain typically need a soft sleep surface, so most hybrids are off the table. The Softer Winkbed bucks this trend with a medium-soft (4) feel and thick foam layers that contour closely to cradle the spine and reduce pressure. This version of the WinkBed was particularly popular among side sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds.
How It Performs
Best Mattress for Seniors: Saatva Rx
Best Mattress for Seniors
8.5/10Test Lab Score
Saatva Rx
The Saatva RX is a luxury model specifically designed for individuals with chronic pain conditions
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Either seniors and people with chronic pain issues, or side sleepers under 230 pounds looking for an incredibly soft, cushiony mattress.
- Feel: Very cloud-like and soft yet supportive of the mid-section. You sink down to the perfect point while maintaining spinal alignment.
- What It’s Made Of: Anti-microbial organic cotton cover with thick quilting, thick foam layers, microcoils, over a pocketed coil support core.
- What We Don’t Like: On the expensive side, starting around $1,800.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Many mattresses alleviate hip pain, but the Saatva Rx is one of the only models on the market created for this exact purpose. Thick foam layers and transitional micro-coils create a medium soft (4) feel, resulting in a deep cradle for your body and excellent overall pain and pressure relief. Each pocketed coil in the support core features a foam tip to enhance the Rx’s cushioning even further.
How It Performs
Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment: Nolah Evolution 15
Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment
8.7/10Test Lab Score
Nolah Evolution 15
A cloud-like experience with a plush euro-top in multiple firmnes options.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Couples and sleepers of practically any weight or position, depending on firmness.
- Feel: Plush Euro-top and thick foam layers, making it feel quite “deep” and cloud-like. Somewhat bouncy and responsive but doesn’t hug your body quite as much.
- What It’s Made Of: Cool-to-the-touch fabric in the cover, an airy foam Euro-top, thick polyfoam comfort layers, and a coil support core.
- What We Don’t Like: A bit expensive, starting around $1,000.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance



Nolah’s Evolution 15 is a pillow-top hybrid that offers top-tier pressure relief. Measuring 15 inches thick, this mattress earned high marks from our testers who enjoy the feel of a high-profile bed. The mattress is available in three firmness levels: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8).
How It Performs
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief: Bear Elite Ultra Hybrid
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
8.8/10Test Lab Score
Bear Elite Ultra Hybrid
A luxurious dual-coil hybrid available in three firmness levels.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Most side and back sleepers with hip pain.
- Feel: Standard memory foam mattress feel that conforms to and hugs the body, while supporting your midsection and keeping your spine aligned. Zoned coils provide targeted pushback around the midsection
- What It’s Made Of: Memory foam and microcoil comfort layers, followed by transitional foam and five-zone pocketed coils. The cover is a polyester-Celliant blend engineered to dissipate heat on contact.
- What We Don’t Like: Strong off-gassing smells for the first two nights.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Spinal alignment is key to reducing hip pain, and some mattresses are better equipped to promote even alignment than others. The Bear Elite Ultra Hybrid is constructed with a pocketed coil support core divided into five firmness zones, creating more pushback around the midsection and gentler cradling for the head and legs. Thick foam and microcoil comfort layers provide additional cushioning to prevent new aches and pains from developing in the hips and other sensitive areas.
How It Performs
Best Hybrid Mattress for Hip Pain: Endy Hybrid
Best Hybrid Mattress for Hip Pain
9.0/10Test Lab Score
Endy Hybrid
An adaptive foam hybrid available in three firmness levels.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: People with persistent or chronic pain in their shoulders, lower back, and hips.
- Feel: Adaptive foam that contours evenly without hugging too closely over robust and responsive pocketed coils. Available in three firmness levels.
- What It’s Made Of: The Endy Hybrid contains three comfort layers of cushy adaptive polyfoam over pocketed coils with perimeter reinforcement and high-density base foam.
- What We Don’t Like: Off-gassing odor can be strong and persist for several nights after unboxing.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
If you’re looking for a mattress that alleviates upper and lower back pain as well as hip pain, the Endy Hybrid is a budget-friendly foam-on-coil model that provides plenty of cushioning without hugging closely or sinking too deeply. Three firmness levels help ensure the mattress can accommodate different body types and sleep positions.
How It Performs
Best Mattress Firmness Options: DLX Premier Hybrid
Best Mattress Firmness Options
8.6/10Test Lab Score
DLX Premier Hybrid
Versatile hybrid with six differet firmness options.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Anyone seeking a well-cushioned sleep surface, couples, and hot sleepers.
- Feel: Quite plush with denser underlying foam layers and coils that push back against your weight and prevent excessive sinkage.
- What It’s Made Of: Viscose fibers quilted to the cover, followed by three foam layers, pocketed coils and dense base foam in the support core, and the cover made of knit polyester.
- What We Don’t Like: Initial odor after unboxing that typically dissipate within 72 hours.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
Choosing a mattress based on your primary sleep position can be tricky if you switch between your side, back, and/or stomach. The Premier Hybrid gives you a total of six firmness options: medium soft (4), medium firm (6), or firm (8) model, as well as a split design with any two of these firmness levels.
How It Performs
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Lull Original Premium
Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers
7.7/10Test Lab Score
Lull Original Premium
A balanced foam mattress with deep cushioning and contouring.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds, back sleepers up to 230 pounds, and people with back and hip pain.
- Feel: Balanced medium firm (6) design with light contouring from the comfort system and sturdy underlying support.
- What It’s Made Of: The Lull Original Premium begins with memory foam quilted to the cover, followed by two layers of adaptive polyfoam and a high-density foam base.
- What We Don’t Like: Due to its all-foam design, the Lull Original Premium sags more along the edges compared to innerspring and hybrid designs. Warm sleepers may also feel some heat buildup in the topmost layers.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
If you’re a combination sleeper who regularly shuffles through two or more sleep positions in a given night, finding a mattress to meet your various needs can be tricky. A balanced and budget-friendly model like the Lull Original Premium can be a good starting point for combo sleepers who aren’t sure what they want out of a mattress. Combination side and back sleepers stand to get the most out of using the Original Premium, especially those between 130 and 230 pounds.
How It Performs
Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers: Layla Hybrid
Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers
8.5/10Test Lab Score
Layla Hybrid
A close-conforming, flippable hybrid with a different firmness on each side.
Key Details
- Who It’s Best For: Side and back sleepers.
- Feel: Softer side feels like the mattress is “hugging” you without allowing you to sink in. Firm side provides more support.
- What It’s Made Of: Topped with a layer of copper-infused memory foam, followed by a layer of polyfoam. The firmer side’s memory foam layer is thinner.
- What We Don’t Like: May be too soft for stomach sleepers, especially those who weigh more than 230 pounds. For a flippable mattress, it’s pretty heavy and difficult to move.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
In addition to the hands-on feedback from our team, we conduct a number of quantitative tests in our Test Lab. The below ratings are based on the experience of our testers.
Performance
The reversible Layla Hybrid features a sleepable surface on its top and bottom sides. One surface is medium soft (4) and the other is firm (7). This versatile construction is ideal for anyone whose firmness needs change from night to night, as you can adjust between plush cushioning and sturdy support with a simple flip of the mattress.
How It Performs
Video: Best Mattress for Hip Pain
Watch the video below to get a closer look at some of our top recommendations for sleepers with hip pain.
How to Choose the Best Mattress for Hip Pain
Selecting the best mattress to ease hip pain means understanding your specific needs to pinpoint the right combination of performance factors.
Pressure Relief
A mattress’ ability to relieve pressure is influenced by how firm it is and how it balances contouring and support. Good pressure relief ensures even weight distribution across the mattress, minimizing stress on pain-prone areas like the hips. A mattress with sufficient pressure relief can alleviate hip pain by preventing undue strain on tender tissues and joints.
Zoned Support
Zoned support means a mattress has different firmness levels in specific zones. Zoned mattresses typically offer greater support under heavier parts of the body, like the midsection. For people with hip pain, a mattress with zoned support can offer targeted cushioning around the hips without allowing excessive sinkage under the midsection.
“Zoned support can be beneficial for hip pain, especially for side sleepers,” says Dr. Dustin Cotliar, M.D., MPH, “as it can help maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on the hip joint.”
Mattress Firmness
The ideal mattress firmness is subjective, varying based on body type, sleep position, and individual preferences. However, for people with hip pain, we generally suggest a mid-range firmness between 4 and 7 on our 10-point scale. This provides a balance of support and cushioning, which can alleviate pressure on the hips while ensuring proper spinal alignment. “However,” Dr. Cotliar says, “lighter individuals may prefer slightly softer mattresses, while heavier individuals might need firmer support.”
Durability
A durable mattress stays supportive and comfortable over time. This consistency is vital for those with hip pain, ensuring reliable support and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
How Sleeping Position Affects Hip Pain
If you have hip pain on just one side of your body, try sleeping exclusively on the other side. Experts also recommend that side sleepers put a pillow between their legs to help maintain proper posture and potentially ease hip pain.
Back sleepers need to keep their body on an even plane to prevent their hips from sinking excessively. Many back sleepers find that a medium firm mattress accomplishes this task while still providing enough cushioning under the lower back.
Stomach sleeping is generally not recommended even for people without hip pain. But for those who can only fall asleep in this position, a firm mattress is typically required to prevent the midsection from sinking and throwing the hips out of alignment with the rest of the torso. “From a medical perspective,” Dr. Cotliar says, “stomach sleeping is the least advisable position for hip pain sufferers. It can exacerbate hip pain by increasing lumbar lordosis and placing undue stress on the hip joints.”
Changing Your Sleeping Position
Switching your sleeping position can be a challenge, as it’s a habit that’s often cultivated since childhood. For those wanting to alleviate hip pain by sleeping on their unaffected side, one approach is to surround yourself with pillows that help you maintain the new position.
Another strategy is the tennis ball technique, where a ball is sewn into the front or back of your pajamas to deter you from sleeping on your stomach or back. There are also some tech wearables that vibrate when you revert to your old sleeping position.
Best Mattress Types for Hip Pain
We recommend that people with painful or sore hips consider a foam, latex, or hybrid mattress.
- Foam: Mattresses constructed entirely of foam are known for their pressure-relieving qualities. The close contouring of memory foam can be especially beneficial for the hips, ensuring even weight distribution and alleviating pressure points. However, an overly soft mattress may cause the hips to sink too deeply, particularly for people who weigh more than 230 pounds.
- Latex: For those who want a bit more bounce and mild contouring, latex mattresses offer more of a floating sensation. While latex beds can be a good choice for people with hip pain, they may not offer the deep contouring found in memory foam mattresses.
- Hybrid: A hybrid mattress combines the benefits of a coil support core with foam or latex comfort layers. Hybrids generally offer a balance between responsiveness and pressure relief, making them a popular choice for people with hip pain.
Is Your Mattress Worsening Your Hip Pain?
Hip pain can severely hamper sleep quality. When the hips are aching or uncomfortable, it can be challenging to find the right position and fall asleep. Hip pain can also lead to nighttime awakenings and fragmented sleep, preventing you from reaching deeper, restorative sleep stages and leaving you fatigued and unrefreshed in the morning.
“The relationship between hip pain and sleep is bidirectional,” Dr. Cotliar says. “Poor sleep can lower pain thresholds, potentially worsening hip pain, while hip pain can significantly disrupt sleep.”
If a mattress isn’t tailored to your body type and preferred sleeping position, it could contribute to increased hip discomfort or pain during sleep. A mattress without the right support — or one that’s either too firm or too soft — may cause your hips to become misaligned with the rest of your body.
Firmness is primarily dictated by a bed’s uppermost comfort layers. While some softness can comfortably cushion pressure-prone areas like the hips, a bed that’s too soft can cause strain by allowing the hips to sink excessively. In contrast, support comes chiefly from the mattress’ core, which provides the stability and uplift that encourages healthy spinal alignment.
All mattresses wear out over time, so be wary of aging or worn-out mattresses that sag, as this can exacerbate hip pain if the bed no longer offers the right mix of cushioning and support.
Quick Relief Tips for Sleeping With Hip Pain
If an upgraded mattress isn’t in your budget, here are some more affordable options that may ease sore or painful hips.
Invest in a Mattress Topper
A quality mattress topper can be a game changer if your mattress is causing hip pain. Unlike a mattress pad, which adds a thin protective layer, a topper can change the feel of your bed by providing added cushioning or support.
Cushion Your Body With Pillows
The strategic use of pillows may alleviate pressure that contributes to nighttime hip pain. For side sleepers, a pillow between the knees can help align the spine and reduce strain in the lower back and hips. Back sleepers might benefit from a pillow under the knees to reduce pressure Body pillows offer full-length support, which can be especially beneficial for people who frequently move in their sleep.
How We Test: Your Comfort Is Our Science
Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Having a holistic understanding of a mattress’s role as part of a sleep system is paramount to our testing process. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on body weight and sleeping position, our testing team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.
In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses across performance categories. The following are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best purchase decision for you.
Construction analysis: Our ratings system is grounded in construction. Each mattress rating is derived at the intersection of quality, value, and versatility across a range of sleepers. We look at the bed’s price point, materials, firmness options, comfort and support systems, cooling technology, as well as brand reputation, and then we perform a detailed analysis that measures performance across six different categories to arrive at an overall score.
Quantitative product testing: During these hands-on lab tests, our team uses various tools and technology to evaluate a bed’s performance against motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature control, ease of movement, edge support, and potential for odor emissions. We use the outcomes from these tests to calculate a score for each category.
Field testing: Our field testers sleep on mattresses and other sleep products, like pillows, sheets, and mattress toppers, in their own bedrooms. After weeks of at-home testing, each field tester provides a detailed analysis of how the mattress performs, including what they like and dislike about the bed.
User feedback: Observations from mattress owners and users outside our team are invaluable to our research. We draw insight from surveys, sleep stories, and customer reviews to extract themes, fine-tune our ratings, and better understand how each product performs over time in a real-world setting.
How We Determine Our Overall Scores

To determine a mattress’s overall score, we assign weighted percentages to performance categories based on how important they are to the individual sleep experience. For instance, areas like pressure relief and temperature control tend to matter more to people than something like off-gassing, and because more people sleep on their side and back than on their stomach, we weigh those positions more heavily.
Performance Categories
Motion Isolation
This criteria alludes to the amount of motion a mattress absorbs when a sleeper moves on the surface. We use two testers lying side by side to evaluate motion isolation, who each feel for transfer while the other person moves on the mattress.
Temperature Control
To determine how well a mattress regulates temperature, we perform temperature tests and look closely at its materials and construction. Many mattresses are designed with cooling components meant to reduce heat retention.
Pressure Relief
A bed with strong pressure relief excels at preventing pressure from building up in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beds with even contouring and weight distribution are top performers when it comes to pressure relief.
Off-Gassing
A mattress in a box may release unpleasant chemical odors for a short period after you’ve unboxed it. The initial smell may be strong but typically fades within 2 or 3 days.
Ease of Movement
This criteria reflects how easily a sleeper can move across a bed’s surface. Responsive surfaces made of latex typically perform better than foam surfaces, which can inhibit movement.
Edge Support
We perform sit tests along a bed’s perimeter to measure how well the edges push back against weight. Mattresses with strong edge support have minimal sagging when sleepers sit on or lie close to the perimeter.
Dive Deeper: Mattress Guides by Need
Like this guide to the best mattresses for hip pain, our team of sleep experts has compiled lists of the top-performing beds for a variety of needs. Each selection of mattresses is further broken down into several subcategories to provide tailored recommendations to a wide range of sleepers.
Mattress Guides for Specific Needs
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.
Send an email to AskAnExpert@sleepfoundation.org with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

