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Jackson Lindeke Headshot of Dr. Jenny Iyo
By Jackson Lindeke and Dr. Jenny Iyo
Why Trust Sleep Foundation

It can be a bit tricky to find the right mattress if you’re a stomach sleeper. The wrong one can leave you feeling unsupported in the short term and may cause pain in the long term. If you’ve slept on a mattress that’s too soft, you’re likely familiar with the feeling of sinking into the bed. The correct mattress can prevent this from happening and keep you happily situated “on” your mattress rather than “in” it. 

We’ve tested hundreds of models to bring you what we think are the best mattresses for stomach sleepers. Most of them are fairly firm and engineered to provide top-notch support. In addition to our top picks, we’ve also included some helpful tips for choosing a mattress and answered some of the most frequently asked questions that stomach sleepers have. 

Looking for more information about top mattresses sold today? Our guide to the best mattresses of 2024 includes a full list of the strongest performers during our hands-on testing.

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Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers of 2024

Helix Dawn

The Helix Dawn has most everything that stomach sleepers like, all in one comfortable package. It has a firm, even sleep surface that’s super supportive, but it doesn’t feel too hard thanks to its polyfoam comfort system. Its zoned support system helps prevent sinkage, and its price-point makes it attractive to value shoppers.

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In-Depth Reviews

“The Helix Dawn really stood out to the stomach sleepers on our team thanks to its sturdy support core and highly responsive feel. Many of the beds we test are too soft for stomach sleepers, but the firmness of this model ensured sink-free movement across the surface.” – Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience

  • Pros

    1. Reinforced perimeter provides strong support that extends from edge to edge

    2. Foam layers contour without bottoming out under your midsection

    3. Sleeps temperature neutral even without the optional cooling cover

  • Cons

    1. Too firm for stomach sleepers under 130 pounds

    2. Limited motion isolation

    3. Has a chemical-like odor when new that takes a few hours to clear

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Firm (8)

Price Range

$749 – $1,399

Trial Period

100 Nights (30-Night Requirement)

Helix Sleep’s mattress line includes more than a dozen mattresses, each designed with specific sleeper types in mind. The Dawn is one of the brand’s firmest models and geared toward back and stomach sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds, but our tests show lighter people may also find the mattress comfortable.

How It Performed

Some of the most favorable ratings for the Helix Dawn came from the stomach sleepers on our team weighing at least 130 pounds. The mattress is firm and highly responsive, so people who use the stomach position won’t experience the uncomfortable sinkage around the midsection that often occurs with softer sleep surfaces.

Other highlights we found during our tests include excellent edge support and easy movement across the surface. A reinforced perimeter helps reduce sinkage when you get in and out of bed and also allows couples to use the entire mattress for sleep or sex. We also detected minimal heat retention when testing the Dawn for temperature control. We’ve attributed this to the firm feel, which ensures steady surface cooling and consistent airflow throughout the coil layer.

What It’s Made of

The Dawn’s comfort system consists of two polyfoam layers, both of which are fairly dense. You should expect gentle contouring and cushioning from these layers, as well as considerable bounciness. Pocketed coils make up the support core. Thicker coils line the perimeter to push back against your weight when you sleep near the edges or get on and off the mattress. The cover is made of breathable, knit polyester.

You can upgrade to the Helix Dawn Luxe, which features an additional foam layer encased in a Euro-top cover. This model also features zoned coils with added reinforcement beneath your midsection, which may benefit stomach sleepers who carry extra weight in their torso and hips.

The Dawn’s sticker price is well below average for a hybrid model, and shipping is free to all 50 states. You’ll also receive two free pillows with your purchase. Helix Sleep’s sleep trial runs for 100 nights, and the company further backs the mattress with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.

“The DreamCloud Premier is one of the most balanced mattresses we’ve tested in our lab. Plush yet supportive and adept at temperature regulation, we recommend this model to any stomach sleepers seeking a combination of cushioning and responsiveness. The well-rounded design even works for couples with different sleep preferences.” – Logan Foley, Managing Editor

  • Pros

    1. Well-suited to couples who want a mattress that isolates motion effectively

    2. Sleeps cool enough for hot sleepers to be comfortable all night

    3. Relieves pressure point discomfort

  • Cons

    1. A bit hard to move around on

    2. Not as supportive for stomach sleepers over 130 pounds

    3. Only has average edge support

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$699 – $1,798

Trial Period

365 nights (30-night requirement)

Comfort is subjective, but mattresses that strike a balance between cushioning and support are often appealing to a wide range of sleepers. The DreamCloud Premier is a prime example. This luxury hybrid is constructed with adaptive comfort layers and a sturdy support system. A medium firm (6) feel ensures stomach sleepers receive the cushioning they need without sinking too much.

How It Performed

Our tests show stomach sleepers across all weight groups should find the DreamCloud Premier comfortable, though ratings were particularly strong among our stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds. The mattress’ appealing design also earned high marks from side and back sleepers on our team between 130 and 230 pounds.

Temperature control was another highlight during our tests. A breathable, cashmere-blend cover and steady air circulation through the coil system help the mattress sleep cool, and none of us experienced uncomfortable heat retention while lying on the mattress. The surface feels somewhat responsive, allowing our testers to move across the surface with relative ease.

What It’s Made of

The DreamCloud Premier’s mixed-foam comfort system begins with memory foam and polyfoam quilted into the Euro-top cover, followed by a transitional polyfoam layer. These components give the surface a plush feel, but each layer is progressively denser, and excessive sinkage shouldn’t be an issue.

The support core contains pocketed coils over high-density base foam. Dense foam rails also encase the coils to reinforce and stabilize the perimeter when you sleep near the edges of the mattress or get in and out of bed. The cover is a cashmere blend with cooling and moisture-wicking properties.

The DreamCloud Premier’s sticker price is fairly affordable, given the luxurious hybrid construction, and shipping is free for all orders within the contiguous U.S. The company’s generous sleep trial allows you to test the mattress for up to one year and decide whether it’s the right fit for you. If you choose to keep your Premier, you’ll also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

“The all-foam Nectar Mattress is a true medium firm model, contouring evenly to your body without excessive sinkage. Our field tester says that the mattress is still very comfortable and supportive after 3 years of daily use, offering great durability at a reasonable price-point.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Editor

  • Pros

    1. Affordably priced with financing options

    2. Effectively relieves pressure point discomfort

    3. Earned top scores for motion isolation during testing

  • Cons

    1. Lacks enough support for stomach sleepers over 230 pounds

    2. Not as responsive as many couples like for sex

    3. All-foam construction retains some heat

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$359 – $1,098

Trial Period

365 nights

A new mattress can be an expensive acquisition, but some models manage to be relatively affordable without sacrificing quality or performance. The Nectar Mattress is a prime example. This all-foam model toes the line between cushioning and support, making it suitable for stomach sleepers who prefer a bit of contouring from their sleep surface.

How It Performed

During our hands-on tests, stomach sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds felt comfortable on the Nectar. The mattress is medium firm (6), making it more supportive than the average all-foam model, so our testers didn’t experience the uncomfortable sinkage that often occurs on foam beds for people who favor the stomach position. At the same time, the topmost layer is fairly adaptive to prevent the surface from feeling excessively stiff.

The Nectar performed well in testing areas that all-foam models tend to excel, such as motion isolation and pressure relief. We were also impressed with the mattress’ edge support, and our thermal sensors detected minimal heat buildup when we tested the Nectar for temperature control. Edge support and cooling are two areas where all-foam beds tend to under perform.

What It’s Made of

The Nectar’s three-layer design begins with a memory foam comfort layer that conforms to your unique curves, cradles the spine, and alleviates pressure in sensitive areas. This foam is infused with phase change material to capture and dissipate body heat on contact. The transitional and support layers are composed of high-density polyfoam, which adds cushioning while keeping you aloft. A cooling polyester, nylon, and polyethylene cover encases the entire mattress.

In addition to its affordable pricing, the Nectar qualifies for free ground delivery throughout the contiguous U’S. Nectar’s 365-night sleep trial is one of the longest in the online mattress industry. If you choose to keep the mattress after the trial ends, you’ll also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

“Our product experts agree that the Saatva Classic’s luxurious coil-on-coil design provides the sturdy support that stomach sleepers need for good sleep posture. Multiple firmness and profile options ensure that you’ll find at least one model that feels comfortable if you sleep on your stomach.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Editor

  • Pros

    1. Well-rounded performance in our test lab

    2. Top-notch edge support makes it easy to get in and out of bed

    3. Breathable coil core enables airflow to prevent heat buildup

  • Cons

    1. More expensive than many other innerspring mattresses

    2. Pocketed coil support core doesn’t totally isolate motion

    3. Better for stomach sleepers over 130 pounds

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Price Range

$995 – $2,710

Trial Period

365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)

Luxury mattresses are often associated with expensive price-points, but that isn’t the case with the Saatva Classic. This innovative hybrid offers strong performance in several key areas while staying relatively affordable. Free White Glove delivery and a year-long sleep trial further incentivize customers.

How It Performed

Our team has personally tested each firmness and profile option for the Saatva Classic. Although stomach sleepers on our team weighing less than 130 pounds felt comfortable on the soft (3) and medium firm (6) models, the firm (8) model earned the most favorable ratings from our stomach sleepers weighing 130 pounds or more.

All versions of the Saatva Classic performed well during our edge support tests. The coil-on-coil design with a foam encasement around the lower tier creates plenty of pushback, so you should feel stable lying near the edges of the mattress and getting in and out of bed. We were also impressed by the Saatva Classic’s cooling abilities, which we attribute to steady air circulation through both coil layers and the breathable organic cotton cover.

What It’s Made of

Each Saatva Classic model begins with a Euro-top. Adaptive foam and fiber fill cushions the surface, but the soft model conforms much more closely than the two firmer options. The transitional layer consists of pocketed minicoils that provide additional contouring and support without generating too much motion transfer.

Low-gauge hourglass coils make up the support core. These coils are made from recycled steel and arranged in multiple zones to ensure extra reinforcement for your midsection and comfortable cradling elsewhere. These coils measure 4 inches thick for 11.5-inch Saatva Classic models, and 7 inches thick for 14.5-inch models. A GOTS-certified organic cotton cover encases the entire mattress.

Saatva is one of the only online mattress brands to offer free White Glove delivery for contiguous U.S. orders. This service includes a scheduled delivery date, full assembly in a room of your choice, and removal of your old mattress and box spring upon request. The company’s sleep trial spans an entire year, and those who keep their Saatva Classic receive a lifetime warranty.

“The WinkBed is a luxurious, versatile Euro-top hybrid available in four firmness levels. Several of our field testers have slept on this bed for over a year and they unanimously agree that it has standout support, which is a must for stomach sleepers.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

  • Pros

    1. Comes in four different firmness options

    2. Coils provide strong structure that keeps stomach sleepers evenly supported

    3. Zoned support core helps boost spinal alignment

  • Cons

    1. Differences in performance between firmness options

    2. You may be able to feel your partner’s movements from your side of the bed

    3. Only offers average pressure relief

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)

Price Range

$1,149 – $2,049

Trial Period

120 nights (30 night requirement)

If you primarily sleep on your stomach, finding a comfortable mattress can be challenging. The WinkBed is a good starting point. This luxury hybrid is available in four firmness levels ranging from medium soft to firm, and you may return your initial choice if it doesn’t meet your needs and test a different design at no extra cost.

How It Performed

We tested each firmness option for the WinkBed. The stomach sleepers on our team weighing less than 130 pounds received ample cushioning from the Softer WinkBed (4), but these testers gave more favorable ratings to the Luxury Firm (6) model. Our stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds also preferred this model, while those weighing more than 230 pounds felt comfortable on the Firmer WinkBed (7) and the WinkBed Plus (8). The latter is specifically designed for people in this weight range.

Each version of the WinkBed comes equipped with zoned pocketed coils for enhanced reinforcement around your midsection and extra pushback along the perimeter. All mattresses performed nicely during our edge support and ease of movement tests, though the two firmest models earned the highest marks. We also detected minimal heat retention when testing the mattresses for temperature control. We’ve attributed this to the moisture-wicking cover, breathable comfort layers, and coil systems that promote steady airflow throughout the interior.

What It’s Made of

The Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer WinkBed models each contain a layer of adaptive polyfoam quilted to the cover, followed by an additional foam layer. While each firmness level feels distinct, all provide an invitingly plush Euro-top surface when you get into bed. The WinkBed Plus swaps out the second foam layer for responsive, zoned latex, which makes this model feel significantly bouncier than its softer counterparts.

Zoned pocketed coils make up the support core, adding to the excellent overall support, and a Tencel cover encases the entire mattress. Measuring 13.5 inches, the WinkBed is considered a high-profile model.

The WinkBed Plus costs slightly more than other variations, but all are within the average price range for a hybrid model. Shipping is free for orders within the contiguous U.S. The WinkBeds sleep trial runs 120 nights. Should you decide to exchange your original mattress for a model with a different firmness, the replacement also comes with a 60-night trial period. No matter which mattress you choose to keep, it will be backed by a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

“If you’re a hot sleeper, we can’t recommend the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe enough. This hybrid model aced every portion of our temperature control tests, and also performed nicely in other areas like edge support and pressure relief.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

  • Pros

    1. Cooling cover and comfort layer materials help offset heat retention

    2. Available in multiple firmness levels, including a firm option for stomach sleepers

    3. Zoned coils push back against extra weight in the midsection

  • Cons

    1. Foam layers may emit strong off-gassing smell after the mattress is unboxed

    2. Customers cannot exchange for a different firmness level during the sleep trial

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Firm (7)

Price Range

$749 – $1,699

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Stomach sleepers who run hot in bed can benefit from a mattress that regulates temperature well. The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is loaded with cooling components to offset heat retention, promote airflow, and keep the surface nice and breathable. Three firmness levels also make the mattress appealing to a wide range of sleeper types, and we’ve found the firm design is particularly well suited to stomach sleepers.

How It Performed

The firm Aurora Luxe (7) model felt most supportive for stomach sleepers on our team weighing 130 pounds or more. Those seeking a more balanced option should consider the medium firm (6) design, which scored favorable ratings from most of our stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. While our side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds found the medium soft (4) Aurora Luxe most comfortable, most stomach sleepers sank excessively on this design.

Temperature control is one of the Aurora Luxe’s defining characteristics. Not surprisingly, the mattress received excellent ratings in this performance category. The medium soft model fared best during our motion isolation and pressure relief tests, while the two firmer designs impressed us with their edge support and didn’t sink too much when we moved across their surfaces.

What It’s Made of

The Aurora Luxe’s comfort system consists of two polyfoam layers over transitional memory foam. Copper, cooling gel, and phase change infusions allow these materials to resist heat buildup and maintain a comfortable temperature. Slight variations in the thickness and density of these foam layers create the different firmness levels. For an additional fee, you can add a fourth foam layer to provide even more plushness.

The Aurora Luxe’s pocketed coils are divided into three zones with thicker springs resting beneath your torso and hips. This creates extra pushback where most of your weight is concentrated, so you shouldn’t sink too deeply into the mattress as long as the firmness level aligns with your body type and sleep position. High-density base foam completes the hybrid design, and the cover is woven with phase change material to keep the surface cool at all times.

Seven sizes are available, including a split California king for couples who share an adjustable bed. Standard ground shipping is free within the contiguous U.S. Your Aurora Luxe comes with a 120-night trial period. Brooklyn Bedding further backs your purchase with a 10-year warranty.

“The Nolah Evolution 15 offers an exceptionally balanced feel thanks to a deep foam comfort system and robust coils. Our product testers say the zoned design is ideal for stomach sleepers who need extra support in the midsection to keep back pain at bay.” – Logan Foley, Managing Editor

  • Pros

    1. Zoned support system encourages spinal alignment for stomach sleepers

    2. Airflow through the coil layer keeps the mattress cool

    3. You can choose between three firmness options

  • Cons

    1. Support level is better for stomach sleepers over 130 than those under 130 pounds

    2. Coils may transfer some motion for those who share a bed

    3. May require deep-pocket sheets

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Price Range

$1,004 – $2,143

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

The Nolah Evolution 15 is a luxury hybrid with an impressive 15-inch profile and three firmness options. Constructed with open-cell foam layers and a zoned coil system, the mattress offers ample cushioning and strong support for stomach sleepers seeking a balanced design. We were also impressed with the Evolution 15’s cooling and moisture-wicking properties.

How It Performed

Our stomach sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds awarded positive ratings to all three of the Evolution 15’s firmness levels. Those weighing at least 130 pounds were more divided. Stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds preferred the medium firm (6) feel, while our stomach sleeping testers weighing more than 230 pounds felt comfortable and sufficiently supported on the firm (8) model. If you gravitate toward a softer feel, the medium (5) design may be more suitable.

All three versions of the mattress performed well during our temperature control tests. Open-cell foams, a breathable cover, and steady air circulation through the coil layer helped to reduce heat retention, as shown by our testers’ thermal body sensors. We also found the perimeter of the mattress highly supportive, especially with the medium firm and firm models.

What It’s Made of

The Evolution features a Euro-top surface cushioned with four foam layers. Each layer is progressively denser from top to bottom, so you’ll feel even contouring when you get into bed but won’t sink too much as your body settles. These are open-cell foam layers, so bothersome heat absorption shouldn’t be an issue either.

The zoned support core contains thick pocketed coils beneath your midsection to reinforce the torso and hips, two areas where people tend to carry a disproportionate amount of weight. Thicker coils located around the perimeter help reduce sinkage when you sleep or sit along the edges. A cover made of proprietary cooling fabric encases the mattress.

The Evolution comes in six standard sizes, as well as a split king for adjustable beds. Nolah offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Each Evolution 15 purchase comes with a 120-night sleep trial, though you can opt out of the trial period and decrease the cost of your order by as much as $150. The mattress is backed by a lifetime warranty against structural defects. Additionally, you can buy an accident protection plan covering stains and other physical damage for up to 10 years.

“The flippable Plank Firm Luxe earned high marks all around from the stomach sleepers on our team, since both sides offer exceptionally firm sleep surfaces. Few hybrids offer the level of support that we found with this mattress.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Editor

  • Pros

    1. Excellent performance for stomach sleepers, especially those over 130 pounds

    2. Flippable design with two distinct firmness levels

    3. Comes in many hard-to-find sizes including RV options

  • Cons

    1. Flipping the mattress may require a partner’s help

    2. Too firm for most stomach sleepers under 130 pounds

    3. Responsive surface transfers motion

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)

Price Range

$693 – $1,299

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Most flippable mattresses sold today feature a soft surface on one side and a firmer feel on the other. The Plank Firm Luxe is a bit different. One surface is firm (7) and the other is extra firm (9), the latter of which is one of the most supportive sleep surfaces our team has tested. We strongly recommend this mattress to stomach sleepers unable to find a mattress that feels sufficiently firm.

How It Performed

Some of the Plank Firm Luxe’s highest ratings came from the stomach sleepers on our team. Those weighing 130 to 230 pounds preferred the firm side, while our stomach sleepers over 230 pounds felt equally comfortable on the firm and extra firm surfaces. Minimal contouring and a strong support core should prevent sinking around the midsection that often occurs when stomach sleepers lie on softer mattresses.

Other performance areas the Plank Firm Luxe excelled in during our tests include edge support and ease of movement. Both surfaces feel highly responsive, so you shouldn’t experience any sinkage when moving across the surface or sitting along the edges — even if you weigh more than 230 pounds. We also awarded favorable ratings for temperature control, though you should opt for the phase change panels if you are an exceptionally hot sleeper.

What It’s Made of

The Plank Firm Luxe’s firm side features fiber fill quilted into the cover, creating a bit of plushness on the surface, followed by two foam layers that lightly cushion the body. The opposite side contains less fiber fill and one foam layer, resulting in a noticeably firmer feel, though both surfaces are exceptionally supportive.

The shared support core contains pocketed coils and is located in the middle of the mattress between the comfort layers. A breathable knit cover encases the mattress. You can opt for a phase change material panel sewn onto each side, though this increases the cost of the mattress.

You can choose from 12 different sizes for your Plank Firm Luxe, all of which are priced below average compared to other hybrid models. These include standard mattress dimensions, as well as a split California king for couples with adjustable beds and a few RV-friendly sizes. Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S., and your order includes a 120-night sleep trial. You’ll also receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects if you decide to keep the mattress.

“The Bear Elite Hybrid delivers just enough pressure relief for stomach sleepers to stay comfortable while still ensuring the amount of support that we recommend for this sleep position. Our testers credit this balanced design to the bed’s robust coil core and cushioning foam layers on top.” – Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience

  • Pros

    1. Zoned support system reinforces the midsection while cradling the head and legs

    2. Three firmness options to suit stomach sleepers in different weight groups

    3. Higher-gauge perimeter coils offer enhanced edge support

  • Cons

    1. Foam layers may have a noticeable odor when new

    2. Two softer options don’t have enough support for many stomach sleepers

    3. The coils may make noise when you shift positions at night

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)

Price Range

$1,231 – $2,548

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night break-in period)

Stomach sleepers who use mattresses with inadequate support systems frequently feel pressure in their neck and lower back. This occurs because the sleep surface cannot reinforce extra weight in the midsection. The Bear Elite Hybrid mitigates this issue with a zoned transitional layer that feels firmer beneath the torso and hips while cradling lighter areas of the body. You can also choose from three firmness levels to ensure minimal sinkage when lying face-down.

How It Performed

We tested all three of the Elite Hybrid’s firmness levels in-house. Our stomach sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds felt comfortable on the medium (5) and medium firm (6) designs, both of which contour evenly to cushion the body and distribute weight without sinking too much. Stomach sleepers on our team weighing 130 pounds or more preferred the firm (8) design for its ultra-supportive feel.

All three models earned high marks during our temperature control tests. We attribute the Elite Hybrid’s above-average cooling to a cover infused with heat-dissipating phase change material (PCM) and steady airflow throughout the interior. Edge support was another testing highlight. The medium firm and firm models performed particularly well in this category, with most of our testers reporting little to no sinkage along the perimeter.

What It’s Made of

The Elite Hybrid begins with a memory foam comfort layer. Copper infused into the foam helps promote cooling on the surface, as does the Celliant-blend cover woven with PCM fibers. Polyfoam makes up the transitional layer. A zoned layout makes the mattress feel firmer around your midsection.

The support core contains pocketed coils and high-density base foam. Thicker coils line the perimeter to push back against your weight when you sleep near the edges or get in and out of bed. At 14 inches thick, the Elite Hybrid is considered a high-profile mattress.

Bear offers free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Your order includes two complimentary pillows. For a small fee, you can upgrade this offer to a full bedding set, including both pillows, sheets, and a mattress protector. Each Elite Hybrid purchase comes with a 120-night trial period. Bear’s standard lifetime warranty covers structural defects in the mattress for as long as you retain original ownership. You may buy an additional accident protection plan against stains and other types of physical damage for 3, 5, or 10 years.

“The Birch Mattress features a latex hybrid design that balances deep cushioning and excellent support. The responsive latex was great at cradling my pressure points but the sturdy design kept me from sinking. My spine always felt properly aligned.” – Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience

  • Pros

    1. Even sleep surface and moderate contouring help promote spinal alignment

    2. Latex comfort system offers buoyant and responsive support for stomach sleepers

    3. Sleeps quite cool thanks to ventilated latex and breathable cover

  • Cons

    1. Not as supportive for stomach sleepers over 230 pounds

    2. Movement may travel across the bed’s surface

    3. Mid-range pressure relief may not be enough for those who feel sharp pressure points

Mattress Type

Latex Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$1,199 – $1,999

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

Stomach sleepers generally prefer a firmer and more supportive mattress, but many also benefit from slight cushioning to relieve pressure buildup in the hips and shoulders. The Birch Mattress’ latex layers offer the perfect amount of cushioning to alleviate pressure points in a stomach sleeper’s hips and shoulders without causing them to sink too deeply.

How It Performed

Our tests show the Birch Mattress is best suited to stomach sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. Side and back sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds may also enjoy the Birch’s gentle contouring and responsive surface.

The Birch excelled in a few categories during our tests, namely ease of movement and edge support. Latex is naturally responsive, creating a light bounce on the surface to help you move across the mattress more easily. This makes the mattress a great choice for couples who enjoy springier beds for sex. The perimeter reinforcement should also help couples feel comfortable using the full surface of the bed without sinking near the edges. Thanks to breathable components like cotton, wool, latex, and coils, the mattress kept exceptionally cool.

What It’s Made of

A breathable GOTS-certified organic cotton cover followed by a comfort layer made from moisture-wicking wool and rayon help reduce heat buildup. Next is a second layer of organic wool that acts as a natural fire barrier. A thick comfort layer of Rainforest Alliance-certified Talalay latex gently cradles your body to relieve pressure. This layer is also ventilated with small holes to promote airflow near the surface.

The pocketed coil support core provides targeted support to heavier areas of your body and adds stability to the design. Some coils are zoned along the perimeter of the mattress to reinforce the edges. The coils rest on a base layer of wool and rayon for extra reinforcement and airflow.

A relatively low price-point and long expected lifespan make the Birch Mattress a great long-term investment. Birch also offers free ground shipping to customers in the contiguous U.S. Your order includes a 100-night sleep trial with free returns, as well as a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty if you decide to keep the mattress.

Watch Video: We Tested the Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers – Here Are Our Favorites

Watch the video below to learn more about our lab’s best mattresses for stomach sleepers.

Expert Tested. Sleeper Approved.

Over the past eight years, our Seattle-based Test Lab has performed hands-on tests on more than 4,000 sleep products — and nearly 2,000 of them are mattresses. 

As product experts, we stay up to date on the latest news in sleep science and product trends. We use this knowledge to fuel our data-backed recommendations. Many of our testers have worked directly with mattress manufacturers and visited actual mattress factories. On occasion, a sleep health expert might stop by to tweak a firmness rating.

When we test a mattress, we collect data across six major performance categories and combine these results with real-world feedback. We use tools and tech to monitor features like heat retention, motion isolation, and pressure mapping. In order to ensure our findings are inclusive of all sleepers, our team consists of people with varying body types and sleep positions.

Mattresses aren’t one-size-fits-all. The perfect bed for you is going to depend on general points like your body weight and sleeping position, as well as unique points like if you have back pain, if you sleep hot at night, or if you just like the feel of latex over memory foam. Our goal at the Test Lab is to help take the guesswork out of your mattress-buying process.

Is Stomach Sleeping Good for You? 

Generally speaking, stomach sleeping is not particularly good for your spine and experts recommend sleeping on your back or side instead. When you sleep on your stomach, you have to turn your neck sharply to one side or the other, which can cause both acute and prolonged pain. Stomach sleeping on a mattress that lacks support can create a bend in your midsection that results in lower back pain. 

Though there are drawbacks to stomach sleeping, there are also several steps you can take to ensure that you get proper support and a comfortable night’s sleep. 

How to Shop for a Mattress for Stomach Sleepers

If you’re a stomach sleeper, you’ll want to keep a few factors in mind when shopping for your next mattress. 

What Do You Need From Your Bed?

The right bed should keep your spine evenly supported without causing pressure points, joint pain, or tension. You need a mattress that has the right firmness and support level for your weight and sleeping position. For stomach sleepers, that’s typically a mattress that’s on the firmer side. You should also consider what to avoid if you’re a stomach sleeper, like a mattress that’s too soft or one that allows you to sink deeply into its layers. 

Spinal Alignment

When you sleep, your head, neck, and spine should all be in an even line with one another. When your spine is aligned like this, it creates a healthy sleep posture that ensures your weight is distributed evenly and that no parts of your body are under undue stress. A mattress that’s too soft for your weight can allow your spine to curve excessively, which can cause pain. One that’s too firm can put pressure on your midsection. The right model absorbs impact and compresses underneath your body without allowing your hip to sink too much. 

Zoned Support 

Some mattresses have zones in the comfort system or support core that aim to provide pressure relief and targeted support levels. These areas are divided into zones that compress at different rates, providing increased pushback where you need it and cushioning where you don’t. This can help relieve pain and maintain spinal alignment. To find a model with this feature, check to see if a mattress’ construction includes a layer with multiple support zones. 

Mattress Firmness

Stated mattress firmness is a bit subjective and can vary by manufacturer, which is why we use our own 10-point scale to measure firmness. Mattresses with low numbers are softer, those with high numbers are firmer, and numbers in the middle represent mid-range firmness. Stomach sleepers need firmer mattresses than side and back sleepers do. 

Generally, most stomach sleepers prefer a mattress that ranks between 5 and 8 on our scale, but body weight is a large factor. People over 230 pounds need a firmer mattress than those below 130 pounds, so these preferences can vary widely. 

Best Mattress Types for Stomach Sleepers

Modern mattresses come in multiple constructions, with the most popular types for stomach sleepers being foam, hybrid, and latex. . Those looking for the most structure tend to gravitate toward hybrid and latex models because they often are able to offer better support than all-foam models.

Foam: These have support cores and comfort systems made entirely from foam. Most often, the support core is made from high-density polyfoam that’s engineered to keep its structure. The comfort systems can be polyfoam, memory foam, or both. Foam mattresses typically isolate motion and relieve pressure well, but have a tendency to trap heat. 

Hybrid: A hybrid mattress has a pocketed coil support core with a comfort system made from foam, latex, or other materials. They usually offer a blend of pressure relief and responsiveness and tend to sleep cooler than all-foam mattresses.

Latex: The term latex mattress can refer to a model made entirely from latex, or one with a latex comfort system. They’re often resilient, responsive, and excellent at holding their shape over a lifetime. Latex mattresses tend to cost more than other mattress types but often appeal to eco-conscious consumers. 

Be Mindful of Back, Hip, or Shoulder Pain

If you’ve got ongoing back, hip, or shoulder pain, it’s extra important to choose a mattress that’s supportive enough for your body weight. Secondly, you should consider a model with at least a bit of contouring or cushioning to help prevent pressure point buildup. A mattress that absorbs impact and evenly disperses weight can prevent you from making your pain worse with an unsuitable bed.

Trials, Returns, and Warranties

Most mattresses carry a warranty and many include a sleep trial. It’s important to read the terms of these policies before committing to a purchase. Sleep trials may have a required break-in period or may only let you exchange a mattress rather than get a refund. Returns are not always free and it’s worth checking customer reviews to learn how well a company deals with returns. 

Warranties typically cover manufacturing defects and a company may disqualify you from a warranty if you don’t use your mattress with an approved foundation. Some warranties extend over the entire life of the mattress, while others are prorated and decrease coverage over time. Stomach sleepers should check to see whether or not a warranty covers sagging, which can be an important factor. 

Tips for Sleeping Comfortably on Your Stomach

Though stomach sleeping comfortably can be tricky, there are a handful of ways to make it a bit easier for you. 

Use the Right Pillow (or No Pillow)

A pillow that’s too tall can create a bend in stomach sleepers’ necks and cause pain. Use a pillow with low to medium loft or skip a pillow entirely to keep your cervical spine aligned and avoid neck discomfort. Stomach sleepers who prefer using a pillow should consider one with a loft of less than 3 inches. 

Avoid Bending Your Legs at an Odd Angle

You should aim to keep your legs as straight as you can while stomach sleeping so that you don’t put excessive pressure on your midsection or cause joint discomfort. It may feel more comfortable to have your legs stretched out in a “freefall” position, but this can cause strain on your lower back. It’s okay to turn your legs out a bit, but you should avoid having significant space between them. 

Add Extra Support Under Your Hips

Many of us carry most of our weight around the midsection. If a mattress doesn’t have enough pushback beneath this area, it allows the body to sink into the support core and causes the spine to bend backwards uncomfortably. Using a bolster creates extra support beneath your hips and takes some of the pressure off your midsection. You can use a pillow or rolled-up blanket to help.

“As a combo sleeper, I do find myself sleeping on my stomach from time to time, mostly when I want to put my pillow over my head and just be on a Saturday morning.

When stomach sleeping, I like a pretty firm mattress — one that doesn’t put pressure on my lower back in that position and allows me to roll over to my side or back with ease. I’ve found that latex and hybrid beds are best for me when lying face-down.”
Mary Fenton
Mary Fenton
Head of Product Content

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

If you’re still not sure which type of mattress would suit you best, you can read through our collection of mattress guides categorized by types of sleepers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a soft or firm mattress better for stomach sleepers?

A firm mattress is better for stomach sleepers than a soft one. A mattress without enough support for a stomach sleeper allows their hips to sink into the mattress and causes their spine to bend and fall out of alignment. A firmer mattress that’s appropriate for your weight can combat this issue.

Should stomach sleepers sleep with a pillow?

Stomach sleepers should sleep with a low loft pillow or no pillow at all. A thick pillow creates a bend in stomach sleepers’ necks that can result in pain and discomfort. One that’s fairly thin gives a bit of cushioning without causing a bend. Opt for a model that’s less than 3 inches thick or forgo a pillow entirely.

What mattress types should stomach sleepers avoid?

Stomach sleepers should avoid mattresses that are too soft and models that give the feeling of sleeping “in” instead of “on” a mattress. If you sleep on a model that’s too soft for your body weight, it lets you sink into the mattress and causes your spine to bend uncomfortably. All-foam mattresses with significant amounts of contouring may cause stomach sleepers to feel like they’re trapped in the mattress.

What is the healthiest sleeping position?

Back and side sleeping are widely regarded as the healthiest sleeping positions because they facilitate even spinal alignment better than stomach sleeping typically does. Stomach sleeping without proper support can lead to discomfort and pain upon waking. However, if you’re a stomach sleeper you can ensure that you get adequate support by choosing a mattress that’s firm enough for your body weight.

How can you make a mattress firmer?

You may not be able to make a mattress significantly firmer, but you can use a topper or switch foundations to change your sleep surface. If your mattress is too soft, purchase a firm topper. While this won’t totally alter the mattress, it can provide the extra support you need. You may also have luck just swapping out mattress foundations or using a bunkie board to create a strong, even surface for your mattress to rest on. You may be able to flip an older-style mattress, though most modern mattresses are not the same on both sides.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.

Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

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Trouble sleeping?

Answer these 5 easy questions to discover your perfect mattress

Trouble sleeping?

Answer these 5 easy questions to discover your perfect mattress

What position do you sleep in?

Side icon

Side

Side icon
Back icon

Back

Back icon
Stomach icon

Stomach

Stomach icon

Do you experience any pain while sleeping?

Back and/or side pain icon

Back and/or side pain

Back and/or side pain icon
Neck and/or shoulder pain icon

Neck and/or shoulder pain

Neck and/or shoulder pain icon
Little to no pain icon

Little to no pain

Little to no pain icon

Do you have any material preferences?

Innerspring icon

Innerspring

Innerspring icon
Foam icon

Foam

Foam icon
No preference/ Other icon

No preference/ Other

Do you sleep hot?

Yes icon

Yes

Yes icon
No icon

No

No icon

Do you sleep with a partner?

Yes icon

Yes

Yes icon
No icon

No

No icon

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