Best Mattress for Platform Beds

The quality and longevity of your mattress often depend on the type of foundation you use. While a lot of people use simple metal bed frames and box springs, these options can often impact mattress warranties and even cause sagging.

Platform beds are one of the sturdiest and most durable bed frames on the market, and they can also be quite affordable. Since they tend to use solid, flat foundations or evenly spaced slats, they’re usually an excellent choice for any type of mattress, including those made with memory foam.

With that said, some platform beds sit very close to the ground, which could make getting into and out of bed more difficult. As a result, factors such as mattress thickness, edge support, and ease of movement can play a big role in determining the best mattresses for a platform bed.

We’ll provide information about how to pick the right mattress for this type of foundation and share a detailed list of some of the best platform bed mattress options on the market.

We’ve also outlined the hottest mattress picks of the year in our guide to 2023’s best mattresses. If you’re looking for more mattress models with exceptional support to pair with a platform bed, here’s our set of top picks for the best hybrid mattresses.

Our Recommendations

The WinkBed is a high-quality hybrid mattress that’s well suited for most types of foundations, including platform beds. A layer of adaptive foam is quilted into the cover, creating a luxuriously plush feel when you get into bed. However, the mattress is also highly supportive. This can be attributed to the zoned pocketed coil support core, which provides extra push-back beneath the torso and hips – two areas where people tend to carry excess weight – and prevents deep sinkage along the edges when you get on and off the mattress.

Customers can choose from four firmness levels for their WinkBed. These include the Softer (4), Luxury Firm (6), and Firmer (7) designs for standard WinkBed models, which contain a second layer of foam that cushions the body and reinforces the sleep surface. The fourth option is the WinkBed Plus (8), which is specifically tailored to people who weigh more than 230 pounds. These models swap out the second foam layer for 2.5 inches of supportive, responsive latex.

The coils promote steady airflow to help cool off the interior and maintain a comfortable temperature for sleeping. Another thermoregulating component is the cover made of breathable, moisture-wicking Tencel. Our testing shows that all four versions of the WinkBed provide great temperature control, but this is especially true of the Firmer and Plus models. We’ve also found the Softer and Luxury Firm models excel at motion isolation and pressure relief, two performance areas where hybrids tend to fall short.

The WinkBed Plus is slightly more expensive than its standard counterparts, but all four of these mattresses fall within the average price range for hybrid models. WinkBeds also offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Each order includes a 120-night sleep trial. If you decide the firmness level you’ve initially chosen is not a good fit, you may exchange your WinkBed for a softer or firmer model at no extra cost – and your replacement comes with its own 60-night sleep trial. All versions of the WinkBed are backed by lifetime warranties.

Nectar specializes in affordably priced all-foam models, including the flagship Nectar Mattress.

This model consists of three layers of foam: a 2-inch gel-infused memory foam comfort layer, a 3-inch polyfoam transition layer, and a 7-inch high-density polyfoam core. The layers work together for balanced conforming and support without the excessive heat retention sometimes associated with all-foam models. A breathable, moisture-wicking Tencel-polyester blend cover also adds to the temperature regulation.

Since the Nectar Mattress measures 11 inches thick, the sleep surface may be lower than box-spring users are accustomed to, but this can be adjusted with a higher platform bed or a bunkie board.

This model is medium firm (6), which is a popular level across weight groups and sleep positions. The Nectar Mattress rates well for side sleepers in every weight category, and it’s also a good option for back and stomach sleepers under 230 pounds.

Nectar offers a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime limited warranty on this product.

Helix Sleep offers a wide range of hybrid mattresses designed for specific types of people based on weight and preferred sleep position. The Midnight is one of the brand’s most balanced models thanks to a medium firm (6) feel and a memory foam comfort layer that conforms easily without sinking or buckling too much. While the mattress is geared toward side sleepers who weigh 130 to 230 pounds, our testing found side and back sleepers who weigh 230 pounds or less should feel adequately cushioned and supported.

The support core contains pocketed coils over a base layer of high-density polyfoam. The coils are reinforced along the perimeter to minimize sinkage whenever you sleep near the edges or get on and off the mattress. Air flows freely through the coil system, so the mattress should also sleep cool despite the memory foam’s heat-trapping tendencies. The foam layers are also deep enough to absorb movement and reduce disruptive motion transfer – a major benefit for couples and co-sleepers.

The Midnight carries a low price-point for a hybrid model and Helix Sleep offers free ground delivery to customers in all 50 states. Each order comes with a 100-night trial period that includes free return shipping, and those who choose to keep the mattress also receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects.

Saatva has introduced more than a dozen luxury mattresses in the past decade, but the flagship Saatva Classic innerspring continues to be one of the company’s most popular models. An innovative coil-on-coil design ensures excellent overall support and a springy surface that’s easy to move across, and you can choose from three firmness levels based on your primary sleep position, body type, and general preferences.

The mattress begins with a layer of adaptive polyfoam quilted to the Euro-top cover, followed by a memory foam lumbar pad that cushions the lower back. Pocketed microcoils make up the transitional layer, gently pushing back against your weight to keep you on an even plane. The support core contains low-gauge hourglass coils composed of recycled steel. You can choose from a profile of 11.5 or 14.5 inches depending on your preferred coil height.

Our hands-on tests show the soft (3) design is ideal for side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. This model contours closely to cradle the body and reduce pressure along the spine. If you need extra support, the firm (8) model should provide plenty of reinforcement — this design earned rave reviews from our back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds. The medium firm (6) model was most popular among our testing team. Those weighing between 130 and 230 pounds across all three sleep positions were especially impressed.

Steady airflow through both coil layers helps the Classic maintain a comfortable temperature. Another cooling component is the cover, which is made of breathable organic cotton. You’ll notice a strong bounce when getting in and out of bed, and the perimeter coils are reinforced to prevent excessive sinkage when you sleep or sit along the edges. 

The Classic’s sticker price is quite approachable given the high-end design. Saatva also offers free White Glove delivery for all customers. This service includes full setup inside your residence and removal of your old mattress and box spring upon request. Each purchase comes with a 365-night sleep trial, giving you ample time to test the Classic and decide whether it’s right for you. If you decide to keep the mattress, you’ll also receive a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.

If you wake up with aches, pains, or soreness in your back, your mattress may be at least partially to blame. The DreamCloud is a medium firm (6) luxury hybrid well suited to platform beds that also excels at reducing back pain. The mattress is constructed with a high 14-inch profile, ensuring plenty of room for thick foam layers without sacrificing coil support. As a result, the DreamCloud cushions and supports your body in equal measure.

The mattress begins with a layer of adaptive polyfoam quilted into the cover, creating an invitingly plush feel when you get into bed. Subsequent memory foam and polyfoam comfort layers also contour to your body while pushing back against your weight to prevent uncomfortable sinkage. The support core contains pocketed coils over a high-density foam base. Both of these components provide excellent overall stability for the mattress. Our testing found the DreamCloud was most comfortable for side and back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, but most of our team members gave the mattress favorable ratings.

A cover made from cashmere-blend fabric encases the mattress. This material is highly breathable, and also wicks moisture away from your body to keep you cool and dry. The DreamCloud’s thick foam layers allow the mattress to perform well in areas where hybrid mattresses tend to fall short. These include motion isolation and pressure relief. At the same time, the foam layers shouldn’t retain too much heat and the coils generate enough responsiveness to facilitate movement across the surface.

The DreamCloud’s sticker price falls well below average for a hybrid model and shipping is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S. The company’s 365-night sleep trial is one of the longest in the industry, ensuring ample time to test out the mattress and decide whether it’s right for you. If you keep your DreamCloud, you’ll also receive a lifetime warranty for extra peace of mind.

If you and your partner are in the market for a new mattress, the Leesa Sapira Hybrid is a true crowd-pleaser thanks to its balanced medium firm (6) feel and thoughtful construction. A comfort system with three foam layers gives the mattress a plush, adaptive feel, but sturdy pocketed coils ensure excellent overall support and a helpful bounce when you move across the surface.

The Sapira Hybrid’s topmost layer is composed of polyfoam cut with channels to promote airflow. This effectively offsets heat retention and helps the mattress sleep cool. Underlying polyfoam and transitional memory foam layers provide extra cushioning while keeping your body on an even plane. Pocketed coils and high-density base foam make up the support core. Reinforced perimeter coils mean you shouldn’t sink too much when sleeping close to the edges of the mattress or getting in and out of bed.

The Sapira Hybrid earned stellar ratings from our side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. The mattress also performed well during tests for motion isolation and pressure relief, two areas where hybrids often struggle. Additional testing highlights include temperature control, edge support, and ease of movement.

The Sapira Hybrid carries an approachable sticker price, and you’ll get two complimentary pillows with your order. Leesa offers free ground shipping to all 50 states. The company’s sleep trial runs for 100 nights. If you choose to keep the mattress after the return period ends, your purchase is further backed by a 10-year warranty.

The Nolah Evolution 15 is a pillow-top hybrid that offers a comfortable balance of cushioning and support. The mattress is available in three firmness levels. Side sleepers will probably prefer the plush (5) or luxury firm (6) feels, depending on their weight. These options offer the closest contouring to alleviate pressure along the spine for people who use this position. The luxury firm may also be comfortable for back and stomach sleepers, though those who weigh more than 230 pounds should receive better support from the firm (8) feel. A 15-inch profile also caters to anyone who prefers tall mattresses.

Soft, adaptive polyfoam cushions the pillow-top to give the Evolution 15 a luxuriously plush surface feel when you get in and out of bed, and two additional foam layers deliver close, even contouring without sinking too much. The bed’s pocketed coils are divided into different zones based on thickness, resulting in added support for heavier areas of your body and less sinkage around the edges. Those who normally struggle getting on and off of their bed should have an easier time with this mattress.

The coils also circulate air throughout the interior to help the mattress stay cool. Another cooling component is the cover made of proprietary ArcticTex fabric designed to draw heat away from your body and keep you comfortable even on hot or humid nights. Since the Evolution has a medium feel and thick foam layers, it is also well suited to people who experience pain or pressure points in the shoulders, lower back, or hips.

The Evolution 15 is fairly low priced for a hybrid mattress and Nolah will ship for free throughout the contiguous U.S. Your order includes a 120-night sleep trial, as well as a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

Hot sleeping is a problem that plagues many adults, but a cooling mattress can greatly mitigate this issue and help sleepers get the rest they need. Brooklyn Bedding’s Aurora Luxe is a top performer for temperature control among mattresses we’ve tested in our lab. Phase change material infused into the cover and top foam layer actively dissipates body heat, creating a surface that feels cool at all times, while the pocketed coil support core generates plenty of airflow to maintain a comfortable interior temperature.

Pressure relief is another strength of the Aurora Luxe we noticed during our tests. The mattress begins with a plush polyfoam layer, followed by a second comfort layer of TitanFlex. The latter is a proprietary polyfoam that combines the responsiveness of latex and deep cushioning of memory foam, so you should experience minimal — if any — pressure buildup without sinking too much. A memory foam transitional layer serves as an additional buffer between your body and the support core.

The coils are arranged in three zones based on gauge. Thick low-gauge coils rest beneath your midsection, pushing back against the extra weight of your chest, stomach, and hips, while thinner high-gauge coils cradle the head and legs. The perimeter is also reinforced to push back against compression and minimize sinkage when you get in and out of bed.

Three firmness levels are available for the Aurora Luxe. Our testing found the medium soft (3) feel was best suited to side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. We’ve found these types of sleepers benefit from deep contouring, which the soft feel delivers. Those seeking a balance of cushioning and support should consider the medium firm (6), which was most popular among our side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Lastly, the firm (7) feel — the Aurora Luxe’s sturdiest option — earned favorable ratings from our side sleepers over 230 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers of at least 130 pounds.

If you need extra cushioning while you sleep, you can upgrade your Aurora Luxe with an additional foam layer known as the “Cloud” pillow-top. This layer makes the sleep surface feel noticeably softer regardless of which firmness level you choose for the mattress,

Brooklyn Bedding offers free shipping for all orders in the contiguous U.S. The Aurora Luxe is available in a total of 10 sizes. These include options for platform beds corresponding with standard mattress dimensions, as well as a split California king for couples with adjustable beds and three RV-friendly sizes. All purchases come with 120-night trial periods, and each mattress is backed by a 10-year warranty.

While there’s no such thing as a “universally comfortable” mattress, the Layla Hybrid comes closer than most competitors due to its flippable design. One side of the mattress has a medium soft (4) feel and conforms very closely to your body. Our hands-on testing found this surface is plush and adaptive enough for side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. The opposite surface is firm (7) and highly supportive. Our back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds and side sleepers over 230 pounds all felt comfortable lying on this side of the Layla Hybrid.

Both surfaces begin with a comfort layer of copper-infused memory foam. The medium soft side’s layer is 1.5 inches thicker to create a noticeably plusher feel. The copper is intended to reduce heat retention and help you stay cool. Both surfaces also contain transitional polyfoam divided into different firmness zones, creating extra reinforcement for your torso and hips while cradling lighter areas of the body.

A shared support core of pocketed coils is sandwiched between the foam layers. The perimeter coils are doubled up to push back against your weight when you lie near the edges or get in and out of bed. Since the coils promote steady airflow, this layer also contributes to the Layla Hybrid’s exceptional cooling. Our temperature control tests detected little to no heat buildup. We also found both sides of the mattress excel at motion isolation for couples, though the softer surface performed better in this category.

The cover can be removed and machine washed to help keep your sleep surface hygienic. Comparatively, most mattresses sold today have non-removable covers that can only be spot cleaned. Be sure to take precautions before flipping the Layla Hybrid. At 104 pounds in a queen size, the mattress is fairly heavy and will most likely require at least two people to lift.

The Layla Hybrid’s sticker price is on par with that of the average hybrid model and shipping is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Returns are permitted within 120 nights of the delivery date. If you decide to keep the mattress after the trial period expires, you’ll also receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects.

If you’d like to use a luxury mattress with your platform bed, the Birch Luxe is a hybrid constructed from premium materials that carries a relatively affordable sticker price. The mattress begins with multiple layers of organic wool and cashmere, which create a decadently soft surface. These materials are also naturally breathable to help you sleep cool and wick moisture away from your body. The comfort layer is composed of proprietary Pulse latex, giving the Birch Luxe an exceptionally responsive feel.

The support core consists of pocketed coils resting over a base of wool batting and rayon fibers. The latter serve as a natural fiber barrier for the mattress. Thicker coils deliver extra reinforcement to the lower back, a common area of pressure buildup for sleepers, while thinner coils gently cradle the rest of your body. Steady air circulation through the support core adds to the excellent overall temperature control of the mattress, as does the cover made of quilted organic cotton.

The Birch Luxe is medium firm (6), so you can expect a balance of cushioning and stability. Our hands-on tests show the mattress is best suited to side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers weighing 130 to 230 pounds. We also recommend the Birch Luxe to anyone who would rather sleep “on” — and not “in” — their mattress. The latex-over-coils design ensures plenty of responsiveness to help you move across the surface without sinking and get in and out of bed with ease.

The latex has received certification from the Forest Stewardship Council, indicating the rubber trees used to produce the material are sustainably grown and harvested. Other certifications for the mattress include a Global Organic Textile Standard endorsement for the cover and Wool Integrity NZ certification to ensure no sheep are harmed or mistreated. These credentials should appeal to consumers who value eco-friendly materials and ethical practices.

In addition to the below-average pricing, Birch ships the Luxe free of charge to customers in all 50 states. You’ll also receive two complimentary pillows with your purchase. The mattress comes with a sleep trial running 100 nights in length, and those who keep their Luxe receive a warranty covering structural defects for up to 25 years.

How to Choose a Mattress for Platform Beds

There are many different factors to consider when deciding which type of mattress to purchase for a platform bed. Although most mattresses perform well on this kind of frame, some may be particularly appropriate.

Platform beds often have low profiles, which can make it difficult to get up, especially if your mattress is relatively thin, uses materials that contour closely to the body, or lacks edge support. Make sure to consider these and other potential concerns when shopping for a mattress to use on a platform bed.

What to Look For in a Mattress

Many mattress manufacturers use buzzwords and fancy names to try and sell their products, but these marketing techniques do not necessarily indicate that a model is superior. When shopping for a mattress you’ll use on a platform bed, it’s more important to analyze the elements that will impact your comfort level. You should also consider how using a platform bed could affect the performance of the mattress.

• Price: Using a platform bed can save you the cost of a box spring, which could open up your mattress budget for something slightly more expensive. While you can find high-quality, budget-friendly mattresses, some pricier models contain more durable materials that could extend the usable life of the sleep surface.
• Sleeping Position: Depending on the position you sleep in, certain mattress types or firmnesses may better meet your needs. While side sleepers often prefer softer models with foam comfort layers for pressure relief, back and stomach sleepers typically like firmer surfaces for better spinal alignment. Platform beds accommodate all sleeping positions, and the flat foundation is excellent for reducing mattress sagging that could impact sleep posture.
• Mattress Type: Most mattresses will work well on a platform bed, but some really benefit from the use of this type of foundation. All-foam, latex, and hybrid models typically benefit from the support. Innerspring models can also usually be used on a platform bed, though a box spring is still preferable in some instances.
• Mattress Thickness: Platform beds usually sit lower to the ground, so you may want to consider purchasing a high-profile mattress. For most individuals, a thicker mattress will make it easier to get into and out of bed. Some sleepers may also choose to use a box spring or bunkie board with their platform bed for extra height.
• Quality Materials: High-quality materials can make a difference in the performance and durability of a mattress. While a platform bed may be able to enhance a mattress’ lifespan by providing even support that limits lasting impressions, lower-quality mattress components could still breakdown and make the sleep surface uncomfortable.
• Firmness Level: Thanks to the additional support provided by the strong foundation of a platform bed, a mattress placed on it may feel slightly firmer than it would on another surface. Firmness has important implications for a mattress’ support and pressure relief. Finding the right balance can help promote healthy sleep posture while limiting pressure buildup.
• Pressure Relief: Platform beds are one of the best support options for pressure-relieving memory foam models. The flat surface of a platform bed also tends to limit sagging for any type of mattress, thereby promoting good posture and potentially relieving discomfort caused by poor spinal alignment.
• Motion Isolation: Vibrations can travel from one side of the bed to another, potentially disturbing a sleeper when their partner moves during the night. A mattress can also absorb movement, preventing it from spreading across the sleep surface. This trait is especially common in mattresses with substantial layers of memory foam or polyfoam, such as all-foam and hybrid models. These options are also frequently paired with platform beds for support.
• Temperature Regulation: Mattress surface temperatures vary based on their materials. Innerspring mattresses often perform the best since air circulates through their coil systems, but hybrid and latex models also often earn high marks due to their breathable designs. Memory foam is prone to trapping heat, but special cooling features can counteract this tendency. No matter what mattress you choose, a platform bed with a slat foundation can help prevent heat buildup by allowing air to circulate around the sleep surface.
• Edge Support: The perimeter of a bed may sag when you sit or sleep near it, which could be problematic for individuals who like to use the full mattress surface. Innerspring and hybrid models often have sturdier sides thanks to their coil cores. Some all-foam mattresses also have reinforced edges, but others may be prone to sinkage. The flat foundation of a platform bed should help limit edge sagging, but a more stable mattress perimeter could make it easier to get into and out of a low-profile platform bed.
• Contouring: Contouring occurs when a mattress adjusts to a sleeper’s unique shape, thereby redistributing their weight to relieve pressure and support the spine. Memory foam, polyfoam, and latex usually contour well, and most models that use these materials are compatible with platform beds.

What Is a Platform Bed?

As the name implies, platform beds support a mattress with a flat platform rather than a box spring. The platforms in question can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. While some have a solid base, others use a slatted platform or a bunkie board.

Platform beds typically provide reliable support for a mattress. While other types of bed frames remain popular, the platform bed is quickly becoming one of the most recommended options.

One of the obvious benefits of a platform bed is that it does not require a box spring. Box springs typically use a lot of fabric that can become a breeding ground for dust mites. Another potential upside is the cost since you can usually find a quality platform bed at a budget-friendly price.

Although there are a lot of great reasons to consider this type of bed frame, it should be noted that platform beds typically sit low to the ground. However, this potential issue can be easily resolved by using a thick bunkie board or purchasing a high-profile mattress.

What Types of Mattresses Are Best for Platform Beds?

Platform beds use either a solid or slat platform for support, and this can impact the type of material and firmness level you should consider. Since the platform typically isn’t flexible, it acts as a very firm foundation capable of preventing sagging. To ensure a platform bed is appropriate support for your mattress of choice, you may want to read the terms of the warranty policy or contact the customer service department.

Foam

Definition: All-foam mattresses are often made with polyfoam and memory foam, though some use exclusively polyfoam. Both of these materials are well known for their cradling and motion isolation. All-foam mattresses are usually very good for the relief of pressure points, which makes them a good choice for side sleepers.

Cradles the Body: Platform beds give all-foam mattresses the support they need to let the sleeper’s body sink in without sagging. An all-foam mattress of the ideal firmness should balance pressure-relieving contouring and support for proper spinal alignment when paired with a platform bed.

Hybrid

Definition: Hybrid mattresses combine a coil core with a comfort system composed of other materials, such as memory foam, polyfoam, latex, wool, and/or microcoils. The result is often a mattress that performs well in many different areas by taking advantage of the best elements from all of its components. This mattress type is usually excellent for a wide range of sleepers, including couples.

Balanced Performance: Because of their combination of materials, hybrid models often receive high marks across performance categories. They frequently balance bounce, breathability, pressure relief, ease of movement, and edge support with no major weak points. The stable support of a platform bed can allow the coil core to compress more evenly, enhancing the bed’s responsiveness while preventing sagging.

Innerspring

Definition: Innerspring mattresses consist primarily of coils. These are usually excellent choices for back and stomach sleepers who need a lot of support, those who prefer a more traditional mattress feel, hot sleepers, and shoppers on a budget. You may find a layer or two of foam in newer innerspring models for cushioning, though these are typically thinner than the comfort systems on hybrid models.

Affordable and Supportive: This type of mattress is typically one of the most budget-friendly options on the market. They can be especially effective for sleepers who need a lot of support. Since innerspring models are usually easy to move on and typically have sturdy edges, the height of your platform bed may not be as much of a concern.

Latex

Definition: Latex mattresses contain natural latex, synthetic latex, and/or blended latex. This is a popular alternative to memory foam, as it provides notable pressure relief without sacrificing ease of movement. Rather than sinking into the mattress and potentially having trouble getting out of bed, latex addresses pressure points while pushing back against your weight and delivering more bounce.

Natural Materials: Many manufacturers of latex mattresses use natural components, which makes them a popular choice with environmentally conscious shoppers. A platform bed can provide a latex mattress with the supportive base necessary to maximize its bounce while preventing sagging.