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Headshot of author Logan Foley
By Logan Foley
Why Trust Sleep Foundation

Side sleepers, people who weigh less than 130 pounds, and certain sleepers with frequent or chronic pain are all great candidates for a soft mattress. 

Soft mattresses feature adaptive comfort layers that mold to your figure and ease pressure in sensitive areas like the shoulders, lower back, and hips. Because they contain more cushioning materials, soft mattresses tend to be thicker than firmer models.

In your search for a new mattress, you’ll likely encounter many brands that use words like “soft” and “plush” to advertise their models, but we’ve found that some meet this criteria more than others. Our picks for the best soft mattresses are listed below, followed by a detailed buying guide.

To learn more about how we test and rate mattresses, check out our guide to the best mattresses of 2024.

helix-sunset-luxe
Best Soft Mattress of 2024

Helix Sunset

The Helix Sunset Luxe is our top soft mattress of 2024. Plush foam layers contour closely to create a cloud-like surface for sleeping, and the support core’s zoned pocketed coils give the design a gentle bounce.

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In-Depth Reviews

“The Sunset Luxe is the softest model in Helix’s Luxe collection, making it a great choice for side sleepers — especially those in the range of 130 pounds or less. Three foam layers ensure a deep, cloud-like contour, and the coil system delivers a smooth bounce without making the surface feel too responsive.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert

  • Pros

    1. Plush foam layers create a pressure-relieving cradle for your body

    2. Coils are zoned to provide extra support beneath your midsection

    3. Two cooling cover options

  • Cons

    1. Most back and stomach sleepers need a firmer mattress

    2. Initial off-gassing odor is fairly strong

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Soft (3)

Price Range

$1,099 – $2,299

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

Product Details

The Helix Sunset Luxe is one of the plushest mattresses on the market, nicely showcasing all the defining qualities of soft, adaptive mattresses. Deep foam layers allow your body to sink into the mattress surface, and this can alleviate stiffness and soreness in your shoulders, lower back, and hips. Our tests also show the Sunset Luxe isolates motion for couples much better than the average hybrid model.

How It Performed

Side sleepers under 130 pounds awarded the Sunset Luxe its highest ratings during our hands-on tests. The response from most of our other testers was less glowing. Our main takeaway is that the mattress is ideal for anyone who enjoys close contouring and being “hugged” by their mattress — but even with a coil support system, support is fairly limited and people who weigh 130 pounds or more should consider a firmer model.

Motion isolation is a defining strength of the Sunset Luxe. This may appeal to light sleepers in this weight range who are easily disturbed by their partner’s nighttime movements. We also noticed minimal heat buildup when testing for temperature control. This is uncommon for a mattress with thick foam layers, and can be attributed to the breathable Tencel cover. That said, people who run exceptionally hot in bed should consider the cooling GlacioTex cover upgrade.

What It’s Made of

Three foam layers cushion the Sunset Luxe’s Euro-top surface, beginning with adaptive memory foam that softens when it comes into contact with body heat and adapts to your body’s unique curves. Underlying polyfoam layers provide additional cushioning, but also gently push back against your weight. Pocketed coils and dense base foam make up the support core. The coils are zoned to feel sturdier beneath your torso and hips, and reinforced along the perimeter — though edge support is limited at best.

Standard-issue Sunset Luxe covers are made of Tencel, a eucalyptus-derived fabric known for its breathability and moisture-wicking properties. For an added fee, you can upgrade to a cover made of GlacioTex. This phase change material is engineered to instantly dissipate heat and feel cool to the touch at all times.

The Sunset Luxe is competitively priced and shipping is free to shoppers in all 50 states. You’ll receive two pillows with your purchase at no extra cost. Helix’s sleep trial spans 100 nights in length. If you decide to keep the mattress, it’s further backed by a 15-year manufacturer’s warranty.

“The Layla is ideal if you enjoy the feel of a soft mattress some of the time, but not necessarily every night. Unlike a lot of reversible mattresses on the market, this one is fairly lightweight and easy to flip with a lifting partner.” – Logan Foley, Managing Editor

  • Pros

    1. Includes high-quality materials at an affordable price-point

    2. Flippable design offers versatility

    3. Medium soft side provides very good pressure relief

  • Cons

    1. Some sleepers may have no need for the flip side

    2. May be less durable if only one side is used

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)

Price Range

$749 – $1,249

Trial Period

120 nights

Product Details

While low-cost one-sided mattresses are fairly commonplace, we’ve found that flippable models with affordable price tags are harder to come by. The Layla Mattress bucks this trend with an innovative, reversible design that carries a budget-friendly price-point and performs well over time. The adaptive all-foam design also absorbed and prevented movement transfer during our performance tests.

How It Performed

Side sleepers on our team who weigh up to 230 pounds preferred the Layla’s medium soft (4) side. The opposite surface is considered firm (7) and didn’t contour as closely, creating a more supportive feel for side-sleeping testers who weigh more than 230 pounds. This side was also quite comfortable for back and stomach sleepers weighing 130 to 230 pounds. Thanks to its all-foam design, the Layla Mattress absorbs movement and minimizes motion transfer, so you shouldn’t experience any sleep disturbances when your partner moves around or gets up — and vice versa.

What It’s Made of

One side of the Layla Mattress has a thick memory foam layer. This surface conformed very closely to cushion our shoulders and hips, align the spine, and alleviate pressure during our tests. A copper infusion in both memory foam layers is intended to prevent heat buildup on each surface and help the mattress sleep cool. The shared support core of high-density polyfoam is located in the center to reinforce the mattress no matter which side you choose. A standout feature is the Layla’s polyester, rayon, viscose, and poly-lycra cover, which can be removed and dry-cleaned to keep the mattress hygienic.

In addition to a low sticker price for this mattress, Layla reduces your upfront costs with free ground delivery anywhere in the contiguous U.S. The mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial, free shipping on all returns, and a lifetime warranty against excessive sagging and other structural defects.

“If you like a deep hug from your mattress, the soft Brooklyn Bedding Signature should be a good match. The transitional polyfoam and pocketed coils provide some support, but the surface cradles closely enough to alleviate pressure points and achy joints.” – Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience

  • Pros

    1. Excellent pressure relief for side and back sleepers under 130 pounds

    2. Optional pillow-top increases plushness and body contouring

    3. Available in 14 sizes, including RV-friendly dimensions

  • Cons

    1. Lacks the sturdy edge support of some competing hybrids

    2. Stomach sleepers may prefer a firmer Brooklyn model

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4)

Price Range

$499 – $1,199

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Product Details

Brooklyn Bedding’s Signature Hybrid is a versatile mattress at an affordable price-point. The mattress is available in three firmness levels, but the Soft model is by far the plushest of all three options – and among the hybrids we’ve tested in our lab.

How It Performed

The mattress has a medium soft (4) feel, and side sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds found this model very comfortable. The bed was also well suited for back sleepers under 130 pounds. Our tests also showed that the mattress excelled at absorbing motion, which means you won’t feel very many movements from your co-sleeper at night. It also offers excellent pressure relief if you experience painful pressure buildup when you sleep.

The bed performed surprisingly well during temperature neutrality tests. Mattresses with significant amounts of foam hug the body to alleviate pressure points, and this usually results in heat retention. However the Signature Hybrid – Soft combats this issue with strong airflow through the coil support core.

What It’s Made of

The Signature Hybrid – Soft includes a quilted top that makes the surface feel comfortable and plush. The comfort system starts with proprietary TitanFlex foam that adapts to your movements and reduces pressure in your joints. The TitanFlex also has a gel infusion designed to absorb and dissipate excess body heat. Next is a transitional layer of proprietary VariFlex foam. This material is also meant to relieve pressure point discomfort.

The Signature Hybrid’s support core contains pocketed coils on a dense polyfoam base. The coils are individually encased to move independently while you sleep. These coils stabilize the sleep surface and help cut down on how much motion is transferred across the bed. The perimeter is reinforced with higher-gauge coils to increase edge support.

Each mattress carries a 10-year warranty and a 120-night sleep trial. Anyone wishing to return a mattress must first try it for 30 nights. Free shipping is available to customers in the contiguous U.S.

“I really enjoy how springy and responsive the Saatva Classic feels. Even with the softest design, I felt a lot of springiness on the surface, but the foam lumbar pad provided deep cushioning for my lower back.” – Danny Noyed, Senior Product Editor

  • Pros

    1. Remarkably plush for a mattress with two layers of coils

    2. Successful balance of softness and breathability

    3. Free in-home delivery

  • Cons

    1. Coil-based design transfers more motion than many soft models

    2. $99 fee for returns

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Soft (3)

Price Range

$995 – $2,710

Trial Period

365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)

Product Details

Saatva’s mattress lineup has grown considerably in recent years, but the flagship Classic remains one of the brand’s most beloved models. The mattress boasts a luxurious design complete with a Euro-top and coil-on-coil support system. You can choose from three firmness levels, including a soft (3) option if you prefer deep contouring and cushioning. The Classic is also available in profiles of 11.5 and 14.5 inches.

How It Performed

Our team has personally tested each Saatva Classic design. The Luxury Plush earned its most favorable ratings from our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. We noticed little difference between the 11.5-inch and 14.5-inch profiles, though the latter provides more overall support.

While these versions of the Classic feel quite soft on the surface, the dual-coil construction created plenty of pushback during our tests for edge support and ease of movement. Our testers also noticed exceptional cooling thanks to steady airflow through both coil layers and the breathable organic cotton cover.

What It’s Made of

The Saatva Classic features a Euro-top cushioned with foam and fiber fill. We found the surface exceptionally soft and adaptive. The transitional layer consists of pocketed minicoils for extra cushioning. In the support core, low-gauge bonnell coils are reinforced with high-density foam rails. The coils measure 4 inches thick for the 11.5-inch mattress, and 7 inches thick for the 14.5-inch mattress.

The cover is composed of organic cotton certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard, a leading authority for sustainably sourced fabrics. Each Classic is treated with Guardin, an antimicrobial agent intended to safeguard the mattress from mold, mildew, and harmful bacteria. In addition to the Luxury Plush design, you can also opt for a medium firm (6) or firm (8) feel for the mattress.

The Saatva Classic is reasonably priced compared to other innersprings and hybrids. All customers in the contiguous U.S. qualify for free White Glove delivery, which includes a scheduled delivery date, full assembly in a room of your choice, and removal of your old mattress and box spring upon request. Saatva’s sleep trial spans an entire year, and those who keep their mattress also receive a lifetime warranty.

“With the Softer WinkBed, I noticed close, even contouring without that deep hug you get from traditional memory foam. I also appreciated how the zoned coils supported my midsection without too much pushback elsewhere.” – Eric Suni, Staff Writer

  • Pros

    1. Excellent performance for side sleepers under 130 pounds

    2. Unusually strong edge support for a medium soft mattress

    3. Zoned support may benefit people prone to pressure points

  • Cons

    1. Taller profile may necessitate deep pocket sheets

    2. Not as easy to move on as other hybrids we’ve tested

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4)

Price Range

$1,149 – $2,049

Trial Period

120 nights (30 night requirement)

Product Details

The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid available in four different firmness levels. The Softer WinkBed is medium soft (4), but we were impressed by how stable and supportive this mattress felt. A plush pillow-top paired with zoned coils make this mattress feel exceptionally balanced.

How It Performed

The Softer WinkBed’s most favorable ratings came from our side and back sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds, but heavier side sleepers also felt comfortable on the mattress. The two foam layers contour closely to cushion the spine and alleviate pressure in the shoulders and hips, two areas prone to soreness for people who primarily use the side position.

As a medium soft model, the Softer WinkBed performed well in areas where firmer hybrids typically fall short during our tests. When we evaluated the mattress for motion isolation, we found that the foam layers absorbed movement and reduced transfer to a significant extent. Our pressure relief tests also revealed little buildup.

What It’s Made of

The Softer WinkBed begins with adaptive polyfoam quilted into the Euro-top cover, giving the mattress an invitingly plush surface. A secondary foam layer provides transitional support by cushioning your body while keeping you aloft. Zoned pocketed coils make up the base layer. Thicker coils rest beneath your midsection, creating extra pushback for your torso and hips, and perimeter reinforcement prevents the mattress from sinking too much when you sleep near the edges or get in and out of bed.

A cover made of Tencel fabric encases the mattress. This eucalyptus-derived material has cooling and moisture-wicking properties to offset heat retention from the foam and help you sleep comfortably. At 13.5 inches, the Softer WinkBed is considered a high-profile mattress.

The WinkBed is also available in medium firm and firm designs. Shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S., and WinkBeds backs each purchase with a 120-night trial period. You may exchange the Softer WinkBed for a firmer model during the trial at no extra cost if you aren’t satisfied with your initial choice, and the replacement mattress comes with an additional 60-night trial. All WinkBed mattresses are covered under lifetime warranties.

“The Leesa Oasis Chill is a luxury hybrid sold in two firmness levels, both of which are quite plush and adaptive. Either is ideal for people who enjoy a close hug from their sleep surface.” — Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience

  • Pros

    1. Comfort layer contains adaptive, cradling foam layers

    2. Cooling materials help minimize heat retention on the surface

    3. Available in two plush designs

  • Cons

    1. Both designs too soft for most stomach sleepers

    2. High potential for strong initial off-gassing odor

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium (5)

Price Range

$1,259 – $2,039

Trial Period

100 nights (30 night requirement)

Product Details

If you and your partner both prefer softer mattresses and you’re in the market for a new model, Leesa’s Oasis Chill Hybrid gives you two options. The medium soft (4) design contours very closely to cradle your body, while the medium (5) model is slightly more supportive without feeling too firm on the surface.

How It Performed

During hands-on tests, the medium soft Oasis earned its most favorable ratings from side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. We recommend this design if you prefer deep cushioning from your mattress. The medium doesn’t conform quite as closely but still feels fairly adaptive, especially compared to other hybrids we’ve tested. This model received high marks from side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds.

Softer mattresses with foam layers tend to trap heat, but we found that the Oasis Chill Hybrid mitigates this issue and sleeps at a comfortable temperature thanks to copper and cooling gel infusions in the comfort system. The mattress also isolates motion better than the average hybrid. Edge support is somewhat limited, and some people may struggle to move across the surface without feeling stuck.

What It’s Made of

The Oasis Chill Hybrid features a Euro-top surface cushioned with three foam layers, beginning with adaptive polyfoam quilted into the cover. Two memory foam layers add to the cloud-like cradling effect. Cooling gel infused in the top layer and copper in the second layer help offset heat retention from the foam layers, and the cover is made from a breathable poly-rayon fabric blend.

Pocketed coils and dense base foam make up the support system. The perimeter coils are reinforced to push back against your weight when you lie near the edges of the mattress or get in and out of bed, though you may notice some sinkage if you weigh more than 230 pounds. At 13.5 inches thick, the Oasis Chill Hybrid is considered a high-profile model.

The mattress is competitively priced and Leesa ships free of charge to customers in all 50 states. You’ll also receive two pillows with your order at no extra charge. The sleep trial runs for 100 nights. If you decide to keep your Oasis Chill Hybrid after the trial ends, you’ll also receive a manufacturer’s warranty covering various defects for up to 10 years.

“A lot of softer mattresses trap heat, but the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe avoids this issue thanks to the cooling gel and fabrics near the surface. This allows you to enjoy the deep contouring of adaptive foam without feeling too hot or sweating in your sleep.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Editor

  • Pros

    1. Includes an array of features designed for cooling

    2. Zoned coils ensure stable support

    3. Pillow-top option enhances plushness

  • Cons

    1. Lacks support for sleepers over 230 pounds

    2. Average edge support

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4)

Price Range

$749 – $1,699

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Product Details

Brooklyn Bedding’s Aurora Luxe is a Euro-top hybrid designed for excellent temperature control. The cover and topmost comfort layer are both infused with phase change material (PCM), which is engineered to dissipate body heat and help you sleep cool throughout the year. Falling at a 4 on our 10-point firmness scale, the Aurora Luxe – Soft is the softest of the three firmness options. The mattress contours closely and is best suited to side sleepers and anyone who wants deep cushioning from their mattress.

How It Performed

Deep contouring and excellent cooling make the Aurora Luxe a great option for hot sleepers who experience pressure points along the spine. During our hands-on tests, the soft version of this mattress earned favorable ratings from side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. We also detected minimal heat buildup during our temperature control tests.

The zoned coils were another highlight during our tests. While the Aurora Luxe – Soft conforms closely, most of us noticed little to no sinkage around the midsection when lying on the mattress. Moving across the surface was not uncomfortable for our testers weighing 230 pounds or less.

What It’s Made of

The Aurora Luxe’s design varies by firmness level. The Soft begins with two layers of polyfoam collectively measuring 3.5 inches thick, making this model’s comfort system thicker than the other two versions of the mattress. An additional memory foam layer provides transitional support by cushioning the body and serving as a buffer between you and the support core. For even closer contouring, you can add an extra foam layer — known as the “Cloud” pillow-top — to the comfort system. This layer makes the mattress feel closer to a soft (3) than medium soft.

Zoned pocketed coils and a high-density polyfoam base layer provide sturdy reinforcement for the mattress. Thicker coils resting beneath your torso, lower back, and hips prevent deep sinkage around these areas, which tend to carry a disproportionate amount of weight.

The Aurora Luxe is available in 10 different sizes. In addition to the six standard mattress sizes, you can also choose a split California king if you and your partner share an adjustable base in this size or three RV-friendly options. All Aurora Luxe purchases qualify for free shipping within the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a 120-night trial with your order and a 10-year warranty if you decide to keep the mattress.

“The Luxury Plush Elite Hybrid conforms closely, but the transitional and coil layers are supportive enough to keep your body on an even plane. We recommend this mattress to anyone with back pain who enjoys the hug of soft foam without too much sink.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

  • Pros

    1. Very little motion transfer

    2. Received top marks from side and back sleepers under 130 pounds

    3. Responsive coils make it fairly conducive for sex

  • Cons

    1. Memory foam comfort layer restricts movement

    2. Occasional noises from the coils may disturb sleepers who awaken easily

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5)

Price Range

$1,231 – $2,548

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night break-in period)

Product Details

If you wake up with stiffness or sore spots along your spine, you should consider a mattress that excels at pressure relief. The Bear Elite Hybrid is a prime example of a mattress that contours closely without sacrificing support. This model is available in three firmness levels, including a medium (5) option for those who prefer a softer sleep surface.

How It Performed

Our team tested all three of the Bear Elite Hybrid’s firmness levels. The Luxury Plush model received favorable ratings from side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. The medium firm (6) and firm (8) designs were more comfortable for our testers over 230 pounds.

We were impressed with the Luxury Plush Elite Hybrid’s performance during our motion isolation and pressure relief tests. Thanks to the cooling cover and internal layers that promote airflow, our testers also noticed minimal heat buildup. The zoned transitional and support layers effectively reduce sinkage along the perimeter, as well, so you should have an easy time getting on and off the mattress.

What It’s Made of

The Elite Hybrid’s topmost layer is composed of memory foam infused with copper, which has natural cooling properties. Convoluted polyfoam makes up the transitional layer. This component is divided into five firmness zones to provide extra reinforcement for heavier areas of your body and a gentler feel elsewhere. The convoluted shape allows air to circulate near the mattress’ surface.

The pocketed coils are also zoned to create enhanced support for your torso and hips. High-density base polyfoam completes the hybrid design. The entire mattress is encased in a polyester cover woven with Celliant, an innovative fabric engineered to capture and dissipate body heat.

The Elite Hybrid is reasonably priced for a luxury hybrid and shipping is free of charge to customers in the contiguous U.S. Each order comes with a 120-night sleep trial. Bear’s standard mattress warranty covers structural defects for as long as you retain ownership. You may also purchase accident protection plans covering stains and other types of physical damage for 3, 5, or 10 years.

“The Nolah Evolution 15 has a deep comfort system. On the softest version of the mattress, you can feel each layer as your body settles into the Euro-top surface — this can be really beneficial for side sleepers and people with alignment issues.” – Brad Nehring, Product Expert

  • Pros

    1. Zoned coils support the lumbar region and promote spinal alignment

    2. Polyfoam comfort system is engineered to redistribute body weight and prevent pressure points

    3. Versatile medium (5) feel excels for side and back sleepers under 230 pounds

  • Cons

    1. 15-inch profile may be too tall for people with mobility concerns

    2. Lacks the strong edge support of the firmer Evolution models

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium (5)

Price Range

$1,004 – $2,143

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Product Details

The Nolah Evolution 15 is a luxury hybrid with a foam comfort system resting over zoned pocketed coils. Three firmness levels are available, including a medium (5) option that contours closely for those who prefer softer mattresses. The open-cell foams are engineered to promote circulation and resist heat retention, allowing the mattress to sleep cool despite its deep conforming.

How It Performed

Our side sleepers awarded the Evolution 15 favorable ratings across all weight groups, but the mattress was especially comfortable for those up to 230 pounds. Back sleepers weighing 230 pounds or less and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also received adequate support. The mattress is available in medium firm (6) and firm (8) feels.

We were impressed by the Evolution 15’s cooling abilities. The comfort system contains open-cell foam layers that circulate air, rather than trapping heat, and the coils promote enough airflow to maintain a comfortable interior temperature. The coils are also zoned to reinforce the midsection and cradle the rest of the body, resulting in easy movement across the surface, and thicker perimeter coils provided good pushback during our edge support tests.

What It’s Made of

The Evolution 15’s comfort system consists of four polyfoam layers that are progressively denser from top to bottom. You’ll notice a plush, adaptive feel when you get into bed, but the underlying foam layers should prevent you from sinking too much. All of these layers feature breathable open-cell foam, and the second layer is framed in a border gusset intended to dissipate heat.

Pocketed coils and a recycled plant fiber base layer make up the support core. Thicker coils rest beneath your torso and hips for enhanced support, while the perimeter is reinforced to reduce sinkage when you sleep near the edges of the mattress or get in and out of bed. A moisture-wicking cover encases the mattress.

The Evolution comes in six standard sizes, as well as a split king for adjustable beds. Nolah offers free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. The Evolution 15 comes with a 120-night sleep trial, but you can opt out of the trial period and decrease the cost of your purchase by as much as $150. You’ll also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects that kicks in when the trial ends, and you can purchase a 10-year accident protection plan covering stains and other physical damage.

“If pressure buildup is making you lose sleep, the Helix Moonlight is a solid choice. Adaptive foam cushions your body and alleviates sore spots along the spine, but the coils provide enough support to prevent you from sinking excessively.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert

  • Pros

    1. Adaptive foam layers contour closely to the body to relieve pressure

    2. Optional pillow-top combines added plushness with cooling features

    3. One of the quietest hybrid mattresses we’ve tested

  • Cons

    1. Not supportive enough for stomach sleepers

    2. Below-average edge support

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4)

Price Range

$749 – $1,399

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

Product Details

Helix Sleep’s mattress lineup includes more than a dozen hybrids, and the Moonlight is one of the softest models in the bunch. A deep comfort system provides exceptionally close contouring, but the support core should provide enough reinforcement to keep the body on an even plane for many sleepers.

How It Performed

The Moonlight outperformed firmer hybrids we’ve tested in a few key areas. Our testers did not notice much transfer of movement when lying side by side, indicating above-average motion transfer, while the coils pushed back around the midsection to help them move across the surface with relative ease. The foam layers excel at absorbing noise, which is helpful for sleepers who wake easily when their partner moves at night.

Among our testers, side and back sleepers under 130 pounds awarded the mattress its highest ratings. The foam layers contoured closely enough to cushion the spine and minimize pressure buildup, but the mattress didn’t sink excessively for these testers. Heavier testers on our team preferred other Helix Sleep models with firmer, more supportive designs.

What It’s Made of

The Moonlight has a medium soft (4) feel, with a comfort system consisting of three polyfoam layers. These layers deeply cradle your spine and alleviate pressure in sensitive areas like the shoulders and hips. Pocketed coils and high-density base foam make up the mattress’ support core. Thicker coils line the perimeter to push back against compression when you get in and out of bed or sleep close to the edges of your mattress. The cover is made with a soft, stretchy fabric. For an additional fee, you can opt for a GlacioTex Cooling Cover that helps the surface maintain a comfortable temperature.

Shipping is free of charge to customers in all 50 states, and each order includes two Helix Dream Pillows at no extra cost. The sleep trial runs for 100 nights, during which you may return the mattress for free if you are not satisfied. Those who keep their Moonlight receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects.

“Unlike most hybrids we’ve tested, the DLX Premier Hybrid absorbs a lot of movement and minimizes motion transfer across the surface. Co-sleepers can enjoy the balanced comfort of a medium soft hybrid mattress without worrying about waking each other up during the night.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Editor

  • Pros

    1. Great fit for people under 230 pounds who switch between side and back sleeping

    2. Available in a dual firmness option for co-sleepers with different firmness preferences

    3. Very good motion isolation for couples

  • Cons

    1. Dual firmness model isn’t available with a firm side

    2. The softest option has subpar edge support

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4)

Price Range

$1,699 – $2,499

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

Product Details

Most hybrids sold today are on the firmer side and may not provide enough cushioning if you feel sharp pressure points in bed. The DLX Premier Hybrid is a notable exception. This mattress is available in three firmness levels, including a medium soft (4) design that contours deeply to create a cradle-like surface while delivering sturdy, even support. If you or your partner prefers a softer mattress but the other person needs more support, you can opt for a dual-firmness model with a different feel on each side.

How It Performed

Our team’s side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds gave the medium soft Premier Hybrid favorable ratings, with many saying the mattress provided excellent pressure relief and didn’t sink too much. Heavier testers who use these positions and most of our stomach sleepers preferred firmer versions of the mattress. The Premier Hybrid is also available in medium firm (6) and firm (8) designs.

Temperature control proved to be a major strength of this mattress. Steady airflow through the coil system keeps the interior cool, and moisture-wicking viscose batting beneath the surface can be an asset if you are prone to night sweats. We also found this model isolates motion better than most hybrids we’ve tested. If you share your bed with a partner, movement-related sleep disruptions shouldn’t be an issue.

What It’s Made of

The Premier Hybrid features a Euro-top cover with viscose batting over two comfort layers of adaptive foam. A third foam layer provides transitional support and creates a buffer between the comfort system and support core, allowing you to lie comfortably without sinking too much. The hybrid’s pocketed coils are designed to move independently from one another. This results in decent reinforcement without excessive motion transfer. A base layer of dense foam completes the hybrid design, and the cover is composed of knit polyester.

The Premier Hybrid – Soft is competitively priced, and standard ground delivery is free of charge for customers in the contiguous U.S. Each order includes a 120-night trial period. You may return the mattress for a full refund if you aren’t satisfied after sleeping on it for 30 nights, and DLX covers the associated shipping charges. If you decide to keep your Premier Hybrid, it’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

Watch Video: We Tested the Best Soft Mattresses of 2024 – Here Are Our Favorites

Watch the video below to get a more in-depth look at our top picks for Best Soft Mattress.

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.

So How Did We Choose the Best Soft Mattresses?

To choose the best soft mattresses, we exclusively focused on mattresses we’ve rated as a 5 (medium) or lower on our 10-point firmness scale — medium firm and firm models have their own best lists. We performed the same series of hands-on tests we use to evaluate all mattresses, which look at performance areas like temperature control, motion isolation, and pressure relief. However, we prioritized feedback from our side sleepers and testers who weigh less than 130 pounds because these groups are most likely to feel comfortable on softer mattresses.

Why You Should (Or Should Not) Sleep on a Soft Mattress

Our tests show that the best plush mattresses excel at pressure relief, so you can benefit from a soft surface if you frequently feel pain or hot spots along your spine. Motion isolation is another common strength of soft mattresses. This means less motion transfer and fewer sleep disruptions for couples.

Softer mattresses aren’t for everyone. Among our testing team, plush mattresses usually earn their most favorable ratings from side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds.

People who weigh more than 230 pounds may sink too much and wake up feeling sore after sleeping on a soft mattress. We’ve also found that softer, thicker layers tend to trap more heat, so you may feel uncomfortable on a plush mattress if you’re a hot sleeper.

“As a side sleeper who weighs around 115 pounds, I need extra cushioning under my hip and shoulder areas to avoid feeling sore in the morning. I’ve found that hybrid mattresses that combine thick memory foam with sturdy coils offer the best balance of pressure relief and support for my sleep style.”

– Lauren Fountain, Senior Product Editor, Textile Expert

What to Consider When Shopping for a Soft Mattress

Choosing any new mattress requires a great deal of consideration and involves a number of factors, but selecting the right firmness is a great place to start. 

Sleeping Position and Body Weight

Our testing team rates each mattress using a 10-point firmness scale. Any mattress rated 5 or lower is considered on the softer side. But firmness is also subjective, and whether or not a soft mattress is right for you depends on your body type and sleep position.

We’ve found that side sleepers and people under 130 pounds tend to be the best candidates for soft mattresses. For side sleepers, extra cushioning beneath the shoulders and hips is key for proper alignment and less pressure. Sleepers under 130 pounds can enjoy the deep cushioning of a softer mattress without sinking too much.

Suggested firmness levels for each body type and sleep position are outlined below. These general recommendations are based on our hands-on tests and might not reflect your personal experience.

WeightSide SleepersBack SleepersStomach Sleepers
Less than 130 PoundsSoft (3) to Medium (5)Soft (3) to Medium (5)Medium Soft (4) to Medium Firm (6)
130 to 230 PoundsMedium Soft (4) to Medium (5)Medium (5) to Firm (7)Medium (5) to Firm (7)
More than 230 PoundsMedium Firm (6) to Firm (7)Firm (7-8) to Extra Firm (9)Firm (7-8) to Extra Firm (9)

Contouring and Pressure Relief

Close contouring is a defining quality of most soft mattresses. This comes from thick comfort layers used to produce a plush feel on the surface. A mattress that contours evenly to distribute your weight and promote even alignment can reduce pressure buildup along your spine. However, if the mattress conforms too closely, you may sink too deeply into the mattress and feel uncomfortable during the night.

Back, Hip, or Shoulder Pain

Soft mattresses that cushion the body can alleviate aches and pains in areas along the spine. Mattresses with memory foam layers form a deep cradle around the body. If you want lighter contouring and more bounce, a soft mattress with latex layers may be more suitable.

Mattress Type and Quality

All mattress types are available in soft designs, but they still feel distinct from one another. Soft foam mattresses tend to be the plushest, most adaptive option — many describe them as “cloud-like” in the way they mold to your body. A soft latex mattress won’t hug the body as closely, but you’ll still receive plenty of cushioning. On average, latex mattresses last much longer than memory foam models.

You’ll also find softer innerspring and hybrid mattresses with coil support systems. These tend to be the most supportive options if you’re looking for a mattress that feels soft on the surface but still pushes back against your weight. Airbeds can be adjusted to specific firmness levels if you share your bed with a partner and differ in your preferences.

Trials, Returns, and Warranties

Most online mattress brands offer sleep trials that run at least 90 nights. These trials give you ample opportunity to test out a soft mattress and decide if it meets your needs. In most cases, full refunds are issued for returns during the trial period, and the brand covers associated shipping charges.

Standard mattress warranties cover premature wear and tear and other defects. Ten years is a typical warranty duration. If your mattress turns out to be defective, the manufacturer either repairs it or sends you a replacement. There may be extra costs associated with repairs and replacements, so be sure to read the fine print before reporting a defect.

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

The best soft mattresses can benefit a variety of people, but if you’re still unsure about which mattress is right for you, check out our expert recommendations for specific types of sleepers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are soft mattresses good for?

We’ve found that soft mattresses are best for side sleepers, people who weigh less than 130 pounds, and anyone prone to frequent pain or pressure buildup while they sleep. All three of these groups can benefit from the close contouring and cushioning of a plush mattress.

Are soft mattresses good for your back?

Soft mattresses can alleviate aches and pains in your back, but support is also important. An ideal mattress cushions sore spots along the spine without sinking too much beneath your weight. If you weigh 130 pounds or more, you may find better relief with a firmer mattress.

Is a hard or soft mattress better for back pain?

Whether you need a firm or soft mattress to reduce back pain depends primarily on how much you weigh. Firm mattresses won’t cushion your body as closely as soft mattresses, but you’ll receive stronger overall support. For this reason, we recommend softer mattresses for people with back pain who weigh less than 130 pounds. Heavier individuals with back pain should consider a firmer model.

Can a soft mattress cause hip pain?

A soft mattress may cause hip pain if the sleep surface can’t support your weight and you sink too much. On the other hand, a soft mattress can be ideal for anyone with hip pain as long as their body remains on an even plane. 

What mattress firmness is right for you?

Your ideal firmness depends on your sleep position and body weight. Softer mattresses are often the best choice for people who weigh less than 130 pounds, especially if they’re also side sleepers. Heavier individuals and back and stomach sleepers may need a firmer surface. 

Your preferences may not align with these general recommendations, which is where sleep trials come in handy. We recommend testing a few different models at a mattress store or through sleep trials to see what feels most comfortable.

How can I make a firm mattress softer?

If your mattress is too firm for your liking, try using a soft mattress topper. These layers of cushioning material rest on your sleep surface and can greatly improve your mattress’ comfort level. Memory foam, latex, feathers, and wool are some of the most common topper materials. 

What’s the softest mattress?

The softest mattresses available measure between 1 and 3 on our 10-point firmness scale. These firmness levels are not very common, though. You’ll find a wider variety of options if you expand your search to include medium soft (4) and medium (5) mattresses. 

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.

Learn more about our Editorial Team

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?

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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?

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Yes

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No icon

No

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Do you sleep with a partner?

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Yes

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No icon

No

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