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Best Bed Cooling Systems of 2026
If you’ve ever woken up in a sweat, you immediately understand the appeal of a bed cooling system. However, these innovative technologies aren’t just for hot sleepers. Temperature regulation is increasingly being recognized as a key part of getting a good night’s sleep.
Cooling systems are designed to give you direct control over your bed’s temperature during sleep. These systems can help meet your needs, whether you want a touch of warmth in winter or need help sleeping cool during the summer.
We share our top picks for the best bed cooling systems of 2026. We also cover the different types of bed cooling systems and tips for determining which cooling system is right for you.
Best Overall: Orion Sleep System
Best Overall
9.2/10Test Lab ScoreOrion Sleep System
The Orion Sleep System is one of the most advanced bed cooling systems sold today. Its bedside control tower pumps heated or cooled water through a network of thin, durable tubes embedded inside a breathable mattress cover. The water can be set to a temperature between 50 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
With the Orion Sleep System, you can dial in a nightly temperature schedule with automatic activation and shutoff. The dual-sided design is great for bed partners who want to optimize the temperature for their half of the bed.
A subscription is not required to use the Orion system, but you have the option of signing up for Orion Intelligence. This sleep tracking system collects data from sensors built into the mattress cover and offers personalized tips and insights based on your sleep trends.
Best Value: BedJet 3 Climate Comfort System
Best Value
8.7/10Test Lab ScoreBedJet 3 Climate Comfort System
The BedJet 3 Climate Comfort System is a budget-friendly, air-based device that can be set to temperatures between 66 and 104 degrees. Despite its lower price-point, the BedJet 3 offers a number of practical features, including a control unit that is only 5.75 inches tall. This low-profile design fits under most bed frames, keeping floor space open in your bedroom.
Users make temperature adjustments with a remote or the Bedjet smartphone companion app. You can create a scheduled program that is tailored to your nightly temperature needs, including heating and cooling fluctuations over the course of the night to align with your sleep cycle. When activated, the BedJet 3 operates quietly at 38 to 43 decibels — this is on par with a refrigerator’s hum.
You have the option of purchasing one control unit, or two units for dual-sided settings. In either case, the BedJet 3 comes with free shipping, a 2-year warranty, and a 60-day sleep trial. Returns require the original packaging and are subject to restocking fees.
Best Technology: Eight Sleep Pod 5 Ultra
Best Technology
9.1/10Test Lab ScoreEight Sleep Pod 5
The Eight Sleep Pod 5 Ultra is a temperature-controlled mattress pad that doubles as a sleep-tracking device. This innovative dual-action technology sets the Pod 5 Ultra apart from most competing bed cooling systems.
A 1-year subscription to Eight Sleep’s Autopilot system is required with the Pod 5 Ultra. Autopilot draws on integrated sleep tracking sensors to automatically modify the bed temperature during the night. The water used to heat or cool the pad can be set to temperatures between 55 and 115 degrees, after which it is pumped through small tubes that run the length of the Pod Ultra 5.
Autopilot also generates sleep reports, manages thermal and vibration-based alarms, and detects snoring to adjust your sleeping position if you sleep on an adjustable base. Eight Sleep provides free shipping for the Pod 5 Ultra, along with a 2-year warranty with extended coverage options and a 30-night sleep trial with free returns.
Best for Couples: Chilipad Dock Pro Bundle
Best Value
8.9/10Test Lab ScoreChilipad 2.0
The Chilipad 2.0 is a solid bet for couples, especially those who don’t agree on the best sleep temperature. This bundle comes with two independent control units, allowing you and your sleep partner to customize the heating and cooling levels on your respective side of the bed.
As a water-based system, the Chilipad offers a temperature range from 55 to 115 degrees. The control unit is compact and fits below most bed frames, and the machine-washable cover works with mattresses between 8 and 18 inches tall.
A benefit of the Dock Pro is that settings can be adjusted directly on the device or with the companion app. Options include real-time or scheduled temperature adjustments, and personalized programs are saved locally on the control unit. As a result, the device can be used without an internet connection, and no subscription is required.
The Chilipad 2.0 includes free shipping, a 30-night return period, and a 1-year warranty with the option to upgrade to a two-year warranty.
Types of Bed Cooling Systems
Bed cooling systems have different mechanisms for regulating temperature through a mattress topper or cover. Water- and air-based systems are most common, but some use thermoelectric and hybrid components.
Water-Based Bed Cooling Systems
Water-based bed cooling systems include covers with thin interior tubes. A water reservoir is housed inside a control unit, which connects to the cover and can heat or cool the water to a specific temperature. Once the water reaches the intended temperature, the control unit pumps it into the cover tubes.
These systems use durable tubing to avoid water leaks, and they often have an additional waterproof lining to protect your mattress in case any tube gets punctured.
Air-Based Bed Cooling Systems
For air-based systems, the control unit includes a heating/cooling element and an air pump. Based on the temperature settings, the device sends warmer or cooler air into tubes inside an attached mattress cover.
Thermoelectric and Hybrid Systems
In thermoelectric systems, an electric current is sent through different materials, causing one side to either heat up or cool down.
To enhance efficiency for bed cooling, a thermoelectric design may be part of a larger hybrid system. For example, thermoelectric technology may be used to heat or cool air or water that is then pumped into the tubing of a mattress cover. In this example, there is little practical difference between the hybrid bed cooling system and a water- or air-based system.
How to Choose the Best Bed Cooling System
When choosing a bed cooling system, we suggest asking a few specific questions that can help you identify your best option.
- What is your budget? Price ranges vary widely, but bed cooling systems tend to be on the expensive side. A hard cap on your budget can narrow down your choices.
- Do you want sleep tracking? Some models include sensors to track data pertaining to your sleep. You should decide if this tech feature is a priority for you — and if you’re willing to pay for it. If you already use another type of sleep tracker, you may not need to spend extra on this type of technology.
- Are you willing to pay for a subscription? Some bed cooling systems require purchasing a monthly or yearly subscription to use the technology. Other systems offer optional subscriptions for sleep tracking, and a select few do not require any subscription at all.
- Do you need it to work offline? Some bed cooling systems have limited functionality, or simply don’t work, if they are not connected to WiFi. If you want more flexibility, look for a model that works when there isn’t a wireless signal.
- Do you want dual-sided controls? If you share your bed with a partner and both of you want separate temperature controls, make sure to get a model that enables dual-sided customization.
- Where will you put the control unit? Before buying a bed cooling system, look at the dimensions of the control unit and make sure you have a good place to put it. Some bed cooling systems can fit under a bed frame, while others need space next to the bed.
- What’s your mattress height? Measure the height of your mattress to ensure the fitted cover included with your bed cooling system is compatible. Most of these covers can accommodate a set range of mattress profiles.
- Do you have pets? Bed cooling systems that include water or air tubes are highly susceptible to damage from the teeth and claws of dogs, cats, and other fur babies. If you have pets, it may be wise to keep them out of the bedroom where you’re using the mattress cooling system.
Other Tips to Help You Sleep Cooler
In addition to using a bed cooling system, a number of practical tips may help avoid overheating and night sweats:
- Keep your bedroom cool. If you have air conditioning, set the thermostat lower.
- Avoid heat-retaining mattresses, such as all-foam models with thick memory foam layers. The best cooling mattress options include hybrids, innersprings, and latex mattresses.
- Wear breathable pajamas or light, loose-fitting clothing to bed.
- Turn on an overhead fan or bedside cooling fan.
- Use a light blanket or a cooling comforter.
- Choose bedding made of breathable materials, such as organic cotton or linen
- Consider a cooling pillow to keep your head and neck from overheating.
- Monitor and minimize excess bedroom humidity.
Dive Deeper: In-Depth Cooling Guides
In addition to a bed cooling system, there are other products you can use to reduce heat, wick away sweat, and sleep at a comfortable temperature. Check out the guides below for details.
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Eric Suni has over a decade of experience as a science writer and was previously an information specialist for the National Cancer Institute.