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Best Soft & Plush Mattress of 2025
Top Picks From Our Sleep Experts
Sleep Foundation
Why Trust Us
Our mission to create a healthier, more well-rested world demands that our product reviews be best-in-class. You won’t find more expertise on mattresses and sleep products anywhere else.
The Sleep Foundation product testing team uses an industry-leading evaluation process paired with real world consumer feedback to come up with objective recommendations so that you can feel confident in your product decisions.
If sinking into a perfectly plush bed every night sounds dreamy, then a soft mattress might be the right fit for you. Soft mattresses feature adaptive comfort layers that mold to your curves. And since they ease pressure points in areas like the shoulders, lower back, and hips, they’re a good option for anyone with aches and pains, as well as side sleepers. Find out the pros and cons of soft mattresses — and if they’re right for you — in our guide below.
- Pressure Relief: A main benefit of a soft mattress is instant pressure relief, around areas like hips and shoulders. That should be balanced with a supportive core — usually coils.
- Quality Construction: Just because a mattress is plush, it shouldn’t sacrifice support. Look for a solid core that will provide necessary spinal alignment.
- Cooling: Softer mattresses offer greater conforming and cradling, but that can lead to heat retention. Cooling technologies like gel infusions can help.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall – Helix Sunset Luxe
- Best Value – Layla Memory Foam Mattress
- Most Comfortable – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Soft
- Best Luxury – Saatva Classic – Plush Soft
- Best for Side Sleepers – Softer WinkBed
- Best for Couples – Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid Mattress
- Best Cooling – Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe – Soft
- Best for Back Pain – Bear Elite Hybrid – Luxury Plush
- Best for Spinal Alignment – Nolah Evolution 15 – Plush
- Best for Pressure Relief – Helix Moonlight
- Best for Motion Isolation – DLX Premier Hybrid – Soft
In-Depth Reviews
If you’re ready to sprawl out on a truly plush mattress, you’ve found your match in the Helix Sunset Luxe. With soft memory foam that hugs your pressure points, the Sunset Luxe allows you to comfortably settle in for sleep.
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Pros
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Plush foam layers create a pressure-relieving cradle for your body
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Coils are zoned to provide extra support beneath your midsection
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Two cooling cover options
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Cons
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Most back and stomach sleepers need a firmer mattress
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Initial off-gassing odor is fairly strong
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Soft (3)
Price Range
$1,099 – $2,299
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
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 lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
The Layla Memory Foam Mattress offers unique versatility and an affordable price-point. Its flippable design gives you two firmness options in one mattress, with the soft side meeting all the expectations for lush cushioning and overall comfort.
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Pros
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Includes high-quality materials at an affordable price-point
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Flippable design offers versatility
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Medium soft side provides very good pressure relief
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Cons
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Some sleepers may have no need for the flip side
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May be less durable if only one side is used
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Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)
Price Range
$749 – $1,249
Trial Period
120 nights (4 week minimum)
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
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’re seeking a soft and comfortable mattress, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is ready to welcome you with open arms. It’s available in three firmness levels, but the softest model is what you’re looking for as it thoroughly cushions your entire body with targeted support for key pressure points.
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Pros
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Excellent pressure relief for side and back sleepers under 130 pounds
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Optional pillow-top increases plushness and body contouring
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Available in 14 sizes, including RV-friendly dimensions
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Cons
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Lacks the sturdy edge support of some competing hybrids
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Stomach sleepers may prefer a firmer Brooklyn model
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4)
Price Range
$499 – $1,199
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
Each mattress carries a lifetime 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.
All of the models of the Saatva Classic are impressive, but the plush version provides luxurious, cloud-like comfort. This hybrid mattress features high-end components from top to bottom, and free White Glove delivery is an added luxury that is included with your purchase.
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Pros
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Remarkably plush for a mattress with two layers of coils
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Successful balance of softness and breathability
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Free in-home delivery
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Cons
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Coil-based design transfers more motion than many soft models
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$99 fee for returns
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Soft (3)
Price Range
$995 – $2,710
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
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.
The softness of the WinkBed aligns almost perfectly with side sleepers’ need for cushioning of their hips and shoulders. With soft foams, this mattress eliminates impact around those joints, enhancing comfort and allowing your spine to settle into a healthy alignment.
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Pros
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Excellent performance for side sleepers under 130 pounds
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Unusually strong edge support for a medium soft mattress
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Zoned support may benefit people prone to pressure points
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Cons
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Taller profile may necessitate deep pocket sheets
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Not as easy to move on as other hybrids we’ve tested
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4)
Price Range
$1,149 – $2,049
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
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.
Eliminate the stress of sharing a bed with the Leesa Oasis Chill Hybrid, our best soft mattress for couples. With two firmness levels to choose from, you and your partner can pick the model that suits both of your needs. The foam comfort system also isolates motion, so each of you can keep on snoozing even when the other is moving around on their side of the bed.
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Pros
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Comfort layer contains adaptive, cradling foam layers
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Cooling materials help minimize heat retention on the surface
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Available in two plush designs
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Cons
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Both designs too soft for most stomach sleepers
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High potential for strong initial off-gassing odor
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium (5)
Price Range
$1,259 – $2,039
Trial Period
100 nights (30 night requirement)
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
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 lifetime warranty covering various defects for as long as you own it.
Keeping cool can pave the way to a great night’s sleep, and the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe has all the key elements to help you sleep at a comfortable temperature. Select materials were carefully chosen for their ability to dissipate heat while at the same time providing a soft mattress surface that aligns with your comfort preferences.
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Pros
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Includes an array of features designed for cooling
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Zoned coils ensure stable support
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Pillow-top option enhances plushness
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Cons
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Lacks support for sleepers over 230 pounds
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Average edge support
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4)
Price Range
$839 – $2,051
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
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 lifetime warranty if you decide to keep the mattress.
The Bear Elite Hybrid meets all the important criteria to help alleviate back pain. It’s soft enough to accommodate pressure points, and its contouring materials can help you relax into a sleep posture with proper spinal alignment. Its unique cover is also crafted to dissipate heat and promote muscle recovery.
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Pros
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Very little motion transfer
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Received top marks from side and back sleepers under 130 pounds
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Responsive coils make it fairly conducive for sex
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Cons
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Memory foam comfort layer restricts movement
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Occasional noises from the coils may disturb sleepers who awaken easily
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5)
Price Range
$1,231 – $2,548
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
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.
Best for Spinal Alignment
Nolah Evolution 15 – Plush
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The Nolah Evolution 15 is a soft mattress offering the targeted support needed for neutral spinal alignment. It contours to match the weight and pressure of the body, and that proportional cushioning improves spinal posture and prevents twisting and straining.
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Pros
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Zoned coils support the lumbar region and promote spinal alignment
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Polyfoam comfort system is engineered to redistribute body weight and prevent pressure points
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Versatile medium (5) feel excels for side and back sleepers under 230 pounds
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Cons
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15-inch profile may be too tall for people with mobility concerns
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Lacks the strong edge support of the firmer Evolution models
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5)
Price Range
$974 – $2,078
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement), $99 return pickup fee
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
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.
Helix has a well-rounded line of hybrid mattresses, and the Helix Moonlight’s claim to fame is its considerable pressure relief. With foam layers that adapt to your body, the Moonlight softens impact around your joints so that you can get cozy and comfortable.
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Pros
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Adaptive foam layers contour closely to the body to relieve pressure
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Optional pillow-top combines added plushness with cooling features
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One of the quietest hybrid mattresses we’ve tested
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Cons
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Not supportive enough for stomach sleepers
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Below-average edge support
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4)
Price Range
$749 – $1,399
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
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 lifetime warranty against structural defects.
Multiple layers of conforming foams make the DLX Premier Hybrid a winning option for people who prioritize motion isolation. Whether you share your bed with a partner, your children, or a beloved pet, this mattress contains vibrations so that movement is almost completely undetectable on other parts of the mattress surface.
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Pros
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Great fit for people under 230 pounds who switch between side and back sleeping
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Available in a dual firmness option for co-sleepers with different firmness preferences
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Very good motion isolation for couples
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Cons
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Dual firmness model isn’t available with a firm side
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The softest option has subpar edge support
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4)
Price Range
$1,699 – $2,499
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
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.
Construction Breakdown
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.
Trial, Shipping, & Warranty
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 2025 – Here Are Our Favorites
Watch the video below to get a more in-depth look at our top picks for Best Soft Mattress.
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.
How to Choose the Best Soft Mattress for Your Needs
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.
| Weight | Side Sleepers | Back Sleepers | Stomach Sleepers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 130 Pounds | Soft (3) to Medium (5) | Soft (3) to Medium (5) | Medium Soft (4) to Medium Firm (6) |
| 130 to 230 Pounds | Medium Soft (4) to Medium (5) | Medium (5) to Firm (7) | Medium (5) to Firm (7) |
| More than 230 Pounds | Medium 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.
How We Test: Your Comfort Is Our Science
Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Having a holistic understanding of a mattress’s role as part of a sleep system is paramount to our testing process. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on body weight and sleeping position, our testing team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.
In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses across performance categories. The following are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best purchase decision for you.
Construction analysis: Our rating system is grounded in construction. Each mattress rating is derived at the intersection of quality, value, and versatility across a range of sleepers. We look at the bed’s price point, materials, firmness options, comfort and support systems, cooling technology, as well as brand reputation, and then we perform a detailed analysis that measures performance across six different categories to arrive at an overall score.
Quantitative product testing: During these hands-on lab tests, our team uses various tools and technology to evaluate a bed’s performance against motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature control, ease of movement, edge support, and potential for odor emissions. We use the outcomes from these tests to calculate a score for each category.
Field testing: Our field testers sleep on mattresses and other sleep products, like pillows, sheets, and mattress toppers, in their own bedrooms. After weeks of at-home testing, each field tester provides a detailed analysis of how the mattress performs, including what they like and dislike about the bed.
User feedback: Observations from mattress owners and users outside our team are invaluable to our research. We draw insight from surveys, sleep stories, and customer reviews to extract themes, fine-tune our ratings, and better understand how each product performs over time in a real-world setting.
How We Determine Our Overall Scores
To determine a mattress’s overall score, we assign weighted percentages to performance categories based on how important they are to the individual sleep experience. For instance, areas like pressure relief and temperature control tend to matter more to people than something like off-gassing, and because more people sleep on their side and back than on their stomach, we weigh those positions more heavily
Performance Categories
Motion Isolation
This criteria alludes to the amount of motion a mattress absorbs when a sleeper moves on the surface. We use two testers lying side by side to evaluate motion isolation, who each feel for transfer while the other person moves on the mattress.
Temperature Control
To determine how well a mattress regulates temperature, we perform temperature tests and look closely at its materials and construction. Many mattresses are designed with cooling components meant to reduce heat retention.
Pressure Relief
A bed with strong pressure relief excels at preventing pressure from building up in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beds with even contouring and weight distribution are top performers when it comes to pressure relief.
Off-Gassing
A mattress in a box may release unpleasant chemical odors for a short period after you’ve unboxed it. The initial smell may be strong but typically fades within 2 or 3 days.
Ease of Movement
This criteria reflects how easily a sleeper can move across a bed’s surface. Responsive surfaces made of latex typically perform better than foam surfaces, which can inhibit movement.
Edge Support
We perform sit tests along a bed’s perimeter to measure how well the edges push back against weight. Mattresses with strong edge support have minimal sagging when sleepers sit on or lie close to the perimeter.
Dive Deeper – Mattress Guides by Need
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.
Best Mattress by Specific Need
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.
“When evaluating a soft mattress for its plushness, which soothes body aches by cushioning pressure points, ensure it also provides adequate underlying support. This balance is crucial to maintaining your spine’s natural alignment and preventing musculoskeletal issues.” – Dr. Adavadkar
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.
What are the downsides of a soft mattress?
While soft mattresses can certainly be supportive, they may not provide as much support as firmer models depending on your body type. That means that your spine may become misaligned if you end up sinking too far into your mattress. Soft mattresses can also sleep hotter than firmer ones because they contour more closely around your body.
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Logan is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a deep understanding of what it means to struggle with sleep. Her years of experience researching and testing sleep products – including mattresses, natural sleep aids, and bedding – are critical to her role helping lead the editorial team. As a chronic insomniac, she aims to bring her findings to anyone struggling with getting adequate rest. Her expertise is in creating informative, trustworthy, and useful health content. When she’s not testing mattresses or researching CBT-I, she enjoys spending time in the sunshine with her husband and her dogs Pepper and Winston.
As a board-certified sleep medicine physician with over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Adavadkar is an expert in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders in both children and adults, as well as addressing sleep issues experienced by veterans. Dr. Adavadkar is a member of the Sleep Foundation Medical Advisory Board.