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The Best Soft Mattresses – 2022 Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

Written by Tuck Staff

Quick Overview

A plush mattress can be ideal for several types of sleepers. Skinnier people, as well as those of average weight (130 to 230 pounds), often prefer softer mattresses because they conform more closely to the body, relieving pressure in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Side sleepers also tend to prefer soft mattresses for the same reason. A plush mattress allows for more cushioning in the shoulders and hips, aligning the sleeper’s neck, spine, and pelvis for optimal support and comfort.

If you’re interested in a plush mattress, read on. We’ve reviewed dozens of the softest mattresses available today, and selected the best plush mattresses to share with our readers. Our picks are based on verified customer and owner reviews, as well as our own intensive product research and analysis. Check out our favorite soft mattresses, then learn how to choose the best soft mattress for you in our Buyer’s Guide.

For the purposes of this guide, a mattress is considered soft if its firmness falls between ‘Extra Soft’ and ‘Medium.’ On a scale of 1-to-10, this would mean a bed that measures anywhere from 1 to 5.5.

Best Soft Mattresses
First Time Buying a Mattress?

Hop down to our Buyer’s Guide for a crash course on finding the best plush mattress.

 

The Best Soft Mattresses - Reviewed

Best OverallSaatva Mattress

Best Overall – Saatva Mattress

Highlights

  • Multiple firmness options (4, 6, 7.5)
  • 365-night sleep trial
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Good conforming and pressure relief
  • Strong, durable support
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Best OverallSaatva Mattress

saatva.com

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The Saatva mattress is a coil-on-coil innerspring mattress available in three firmness levels: ‘Medium Soft’ (4), ‘Medium Firm’ (6), and ‘Firm’ (7.5). The mattress is available in two profile options – 11.5 inches and 14.5 inches.

The bed’s plush, padded Euro-top cover and foam comfort layers combine with its pocketed coil transitional layer to provide close, consistent conforming. Meanwhile, steel-tempered bonnell coils in the support core prevent sinkage and sagging.

The Saatva’s innerspring construction ensures great temperature neutrality for hot sleepers and also provides strong edge support. The Saatva is also suitable for eco-conscious consumers, as it is made with environmentally friendly materials, such as recycled steel coils and organic cotton.

Saatva offers free White Glove delivery and old mattress removal to customers within the contiguous U.S. and Canada. The mattress comes with a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty.

The Bottom Line.

For sleepers who prefer a traditional innerspring feel, but with extra plushness, it doesn’t get better than the Saatva. Plus, the Saatva comes with attractive features like free White Glove Delivery, an extended sleep trial and warranty, and multiple profile and firmness options.

  • Every type of sleeper (side, back, stomach, combination). The Saatva offers three firmness settings to suit any type of sleep position. For those prefer a softer mattress, we recommend either the ‘Medium Soft’ (ideal for lightweight sleepers in any sleep position, or average weight sleepers who sleep on their side) or the ‘Medium Firm’ (ideal for average weight sleepers who sleep on their back or stomach).
  • Sleepers in all weight groups (light, average, heavy). The ‘Medium Soft’ or ‘Medium Firm’ options are better for light and average weight individuals, respectively, while heavier sleepers can still enjoy a supportive yet plush mattress with the ‘Firm’ option, thanks to the padded Euro-top.
  • Those who prefer high-profile beds. The Saatva comes in two profiles, 11.5 and 14.5 inches, either of which is taller than the average mattress.
  • Those who sleep hot. Innerspring coils allow for ample air circulation throughout the support core of the mattress, so the bed sleeps cool.

Not Recommended for:

  • Sleepers who wake easily from noise or movement. The Saatva offers average motion isolation, which may lead to sleep disruptions for light sleepers.
  • Those who prefer a traditional memory foam feel. The Saatva’s thick comfort layers and padded Euro-top offer a much plusher surface than you’ll find on the average innerspring bed, but while the mattress surface feels soft overall, it won’t conform as closely to the body as a memory foam mattress.

Best ValueNectar Mattress

Best Value  – Nectar Mattress

Highlights

  • 'Medium Firm' (6)
  • 365-night sleep trial
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Balanced feel combines contouring memory foam and sturdy support
  • Excellent motion isolation and no noise
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Best ValueNectar Mattress

nectarsleep.com

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Softer mattresses generally cost more than firmer models because additional materials are needed to create a plush surface. The affordable Nectar Mattress is an interesting case because, technically speaking, this flagship model is considered ‘Medium Firm’ (6). A thick memory foam comfort layer provides enough contouring to make the surface feel fairly plush, but the transitional and base layers are constructed from high-density polyfoam that stabilizes the mattress very well. This ensures an invitingly plush feel without sacrificing support.

The Nectar Mattress offers very good motion isolation for couples. The foam layers absorb movement and practically eliminate bothersome transfer across the surface to help you and your partner sleep soundly when the other person changes positions or gets in and out of bed. Pressure relief is another asset of this mattress, particularly for side and back sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. Phase change material infused into the top layer also cuts down on the uncomfortable heat retention that many people dislike about all-foam beds.

Not only does the Nectar Mattress cost less than many competing memory foam models, but it also qualifies for free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Your purchase comes with a sleep trial that allows you to test out the mattress for an entire year before making a decision. Should you decide to keep it, you’ll also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

The Bottom Line.

The Nectar Mattress is firmer than average compared to other memory foam models, resulting in extra support without sacrificing the close contour people enjoy about these beds. Nectar further incentivizes shoppers on a budget with affordable pricing, an exceptionally lengthy trial period, and a forever warranty.

  • Side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds. The Nectar’s all-foam design is ideal for side sleepers who feel pressure points due to poor spinal alignment and need ample cushioning for their shoulders and hips. At the same time, the mattress is fairly firm and should maintain an even surface for back sleepers.
  • Couples. Like other memory foam models, the Nectar Mattress excels at motion isolation to reduce nighttime disturbances for couples and co-sleepers. The mattress is also completely silent and won’t produce any disruptive squeaks and creaks.
  • Value seekers. The Nectar Mattress costs less than many competing memory foam models and shipping is free of charge for all customers in the contiguous U.S.
  • Shoppers looking for a mattress with a long trial period. Nectar Sleep’s 365-night sleep trial is one of the longest in the online mattress biz. This ensures plenty of time to test out the mattress and decide whether or not it’s right for you.

Not Recommended for:

  • People who enjoy springy sleep surfaces. The Nectar’s memory foam comfort layer responds slowly to the body and produces little to no bounce. This can make the surface difficult to move across for some people.
  • Back and stomach sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds. Despite its medium firm feel, the Nectar Mattress is probably too soft and prone to uncomfortable sinkage for back and stomach sleepers in this weight range. This can largely be attributed to its coil-free all-foam design.

Best LuxuryPlushBeds Botanical Bliss

Best Luxury – PlushBeds Botanical Bliss

Highlights

  • Two firmness options (5.5, 6.5)
  • 100-night sleep trial
  • 25 year warranty
  • Natural Dunlop latex construction
  • Highly durable and great temperature neutrality
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Best LuxuryPlushBeds Botanical Bliss

plushbeds.com

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Sustainability and an ethical supply chain are crucial to many buyers, and the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is a soft mattress that checks both of those boxes. The Botanical Bliss is available in two firmness levels, medium (5.5) and medium-firm (6.5), and consists almost entirely of natural Dunlop latex, material known for its sustainable production.

The cover features a knit, organic cotton that’s breathable, moisture-wicking and soft to the touch. Under that are comfort layers of Dunlop latex, with the thickness and firmness varying depending on the firmness level you choose. The mattress is designed for you to be able to open up the cover and add, remove, and swap out layers, customizing your mattress. The support core features varying layers, firm, supportive Dunlop latex.

Like most latex mattresses, the Botanical Bliss tested very well in durability and temperature neutrality, also testing fairly well in pressure relief. In addition to the normal sizes, the mattress also comes in split King and California King sizes, with each side featuring customizable firmness. Plushbeds ships the bed free and offers a 100 night sleep trial and 25 year warranty.

  • Every type of sleeper (side, back, stomach, combination). Thick latex comfort layers, a sturdy support core, and customizable firmness makes this bed suitable for practically every sleeping position.
  • Sleepers in all weight groups (light, average, heavy). Though best for sleepers under 230 lbs, this mattress has the support necessary for all sleepers.
  • Eco-conscious shoppers. This mattress is made entirely of natural Dunlop latex, a material known for its sustainable production.
  • Those who tend to sleep hot. Latex tends to sleep cool, and the organic cotton cover is very breathable.
  • A Tencel knit cover, gel-infused memory foam, and pocketed coil core all help regulate the mattress temperature, from top to bottom.

Not Recommended for:

  • People with latex allergies. Since this mattress is made almost entirely of latex.
  • Fans of close-conforming foam. The the Botanical Bliss conforms moderately for some pressure relief, it doesn’t provide that ‘hugging’ feel of memory foam.
  • The 120-night sleep trial includes a mandatory 30-night break-in period.

Best HybridSofter WinkBed

Best Hybrid – Softer WinkBed

Highlights

  • ’Medium Soft’ (4)
  • 120-night sleep trial
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Good motion isolation
  • Close conforming and pressure relief
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Best HybridSofter WinkBed

winkbeds.com

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Hybrid mattresses often provide a good balance of body conforming, temperature neutrality, and sleeper support – but many are made on the firmer side. The WinkBed is a notable exception. The Softer WinkBed is one of four firmness options, measuring at a 4 out of 10 on the firmness scale.

The Softer WinkBed starts with a polyfoam-quilted Euro-top with a luxuriously plush feel. This polyfoam layer is infused with cooling gel, which is designed to absorb and dissipate heat. Next is a denser layer of proprietary SupportCell polyfoam. This layer prevents excessive sinkage and keeps weight evenly distributed to promote spinal alignment.

This model includes an extra transitional layer of polyfoam beneath the SupportCell layer to add extra cushion between the comfort system and the support core. The pocketed coil support core is zoned to help prevent sagging in the midsection, and thicker coils along the perimeter reinforce the edges. A breathable Tencel cover encases the mattress.

The WinkBed also isolates motion fairly well and, like many hybrids, provides good air circulation through its coil layers that allows the bed to maintain a comfortable sleep temperature. The infusion of gel in the polyfoam also helps to further cool down the mattress surface temperature.

The WinkBed will ship for free in the contiguous U.S., and White Glove delivery is offered for an additional fee. The mattress is backed by a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty, both of which are much longer than average.

The Bottom Line.

The Softer WinkBed hits a soft sweet spot for many side sleepers, allowing enough plushness without sinking too deeply. The bed’s advanced construction also ensures optimal support for sleepers with back pain.

  • Side sleepers. Thick foam comfort layers ensure the Softer WinkBed provides side sleepers with an ideal amount of plushness to relieve pressure-induced pain in their joints.
  • Sleepers who weigh under 130 pounds. The Softer WinkBed has a medium soft (4) feel that is best suited for side and back sleepers who weigh under 130 pounds.
  • Couples. The Softer WinkBed isolates motion and noise quite well, preventing sleep disruptions during the night, but the bed is also responsive enough to be suitable for sex.
  • Those who tend to sleep hot. A Tencel knit cover, gel-infused polyfoam, and pocketed coil core all help regulate the mattress temperature, from top to bottom.

Not Recommended For:

  • Stomach sleeper weighing at least 130 pounds With a 4 out of 10 firmness level, the Softer WinkBed may sink too deeply for these sleepers.
  • Those who want to be able to return their mattress quickly if they don’t love it. The 120-night sleep trial includes a mandatory 30-night break-in period.

Best Plush Mattresses Buying Guide

Below, we share everything sleepers need to consider when buying a soft mattress, along with our best tips for buying a new mattress.

What You Need to Know About Soft Mattresses

Mattress firmness indicates how the surface of a bed feels beneath the sleeper’s body. The cover and comfort (or topmost) layer of a mattress affects firmness to the greatest extent.

We measure mattress firmness using a 1-to-10 scale, with 10 being the firmest and 1 being the least firm — although the vast majority of mattresses sold today fall between a 3 (‘Soft’) and an 8 (‘Firm’). When we discuss soft mattresses, we’re referring to beds with a rating of 5.5 (‘Medium’) or lower on this 1-to-10 scale.

Soft mattresses are generally most popular among side sleepers due to improved spinal alignment and pressure relief, as well as lighter individuals who do not experience as much conforming on firmer models. However, softer mattresses have also been linked to certain disadvantages, such as high body heat retention, more off-gassing odor, and shorter overall lifespan.

Who Sleeps Best on Soft Mattresses?

This section will discuss various physiological factors — such as bodyweight and sleep position — that often indicate a sleeper will prefer a softer mattress. But first, a disclaimer: every sleeper is different, and this information applies to most — but not all — mattress owners. We highly recommend testing out a wide range of mattress firmnesses in order to determine your preferred rating before finalizing your purchase.

Bodyweight and Mattress Softness

Let’s begin by talking about bodyweight. For the purposes of this page, the average sleeper weighs between 130 and 230 pounds; ‘below-average weight’ signifies anything less than 130 pounds, and ‘above-average weight’ applies to anything greater than 230 pounds.

Bodyweight is one physical factor that generally correlates to firmness: people who weigh less tend to prefer softer mattresses, whereas heavier people often feel most comfortable on a firmer mattress.

Reasons for this correlation include conforming and pressure relief. Mattresses that are softer tend to sink more deeply beneath sleeper’s bodies; in contrast, firmer mattresses will not sink much (if at all) unless the sleeper weighs enough.

For this reason, people in the below-average and average weight groups often feel most comfortable on softer mattresses where they can experience the full sinking effects and associated pressure relief, and less comfortable on firmer mattresses that do not sink as much or relieve pressure to the same extent.

Alternatively, people of heavier body weight may sink too deeply into a softer mattress, which compromises mattress support and can lead to more pain, pressure, and discomfort. For this reason, heavier individuals tend to feel most comfortable on firmer mattresses.

The table below includes the most popular firmness ratings for each of the three weight groups.

Sleep Position and Mattress Softness

Your sleep position also affects your firmness preferences, since softer mattresses that conform more closely to the body can either help or hinder healthy spinal alignment while you sleep.

The back sleeping position naturally aligns the spine on its own, so sleepers who choose this position may not need their mattress to aid spinal alignment. However, back sleepers may find more comfort from a mattress with a moderate amount of conforming. This way, the mattress can allow their hips to sink a bit deeper than the rest of their body, relieving pressure in the lower back.

Side sleepers, on the other hand, require enhanced support in the neck, shoulders, lower back (lumbar), and hips in order to reduce pain and pressure. A softer mattress, with higher levels of conforming, allows wider points of their body to sink deeper into the mattress and maintain healthy spinal alignment. For this reason, side-sleepers often prefer Soft or Medium mattresses.

Most stomach sleepers find soft mattresses somewhat uncomfortable. This is because their lower stomach and pelvic area can sink too deeply, pulling their lower spine out of alignment in a way that can increase pain and pressure in the neck and shoulders.

For heavier people who sleep on their stomachs, a softer mattress can be especially problematic because a high percentage of their weight may be located in their stomach. Stomach-sleepers in the below-average weight group, on the other hand, may feel comfortable on mattresses rated as Medium Soft because they provide some conforming without too much sinking.

The table below lists preferred firmness levels for different sleepers based on bodyweight and sleep position.

What Is the Softest Type of Mattress?

In the above section, we discussed how different levels of conforming can affect the feel and overall plushness of a mattress. While mattresses come in a range of plushness levels, some types of mattresses offer better levels of conforming, and therefore “feel” softer,” than others.

Below we review the five common mattress types you’ll encounter today. To help you find your ideal mattress type, we also evaluate the suitability of each type for those interested in a plush mattress.

Best Plush Foam Mattresses

Mattress Reviews
Nectar Mattress Review
Mattress Reviews
GhostBed Luxe Mattress Review

Foam Mattresses

Foam mattresses use foam in all aspects of their construction, with higher-density foam in the support layer and polyfoam and/or memory foam in the comfort layers. Foam mattresses are widely regarded as one of the plushest mattress types, thanks to their superior pressure relief. Foam beds offer the highest level of conforming, although they’re available in all levels of the firmness spectrum, from ‘Soft’ to ‘Firm.’

Foam mattresses with a higher firmness rating tend to use higher amounts of higher-density and medium-density foams, in order to provide more durability and support for heavier individuals.

Softer mattresses with lower firmness ratings tend to use more lower-density foams. These provide the plushest mattress surface and can be more comfortable for lighter individuals and side sleepers. However, they can also trap body heat, as your body sinks deeper into the mattress surface.

As a result, it’s best to look for mattresses that use a mix of medium- and low-density foams in the comfort layers. These can help you achieve that plush feel, without sacrificing durability or temperature neutrality.

Best Plush Hybrid Mattresses

Mattress Reviews
WinkBeds Mattress Reviews

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses use pocketed coils in their support core, above a base layer of polyfoam, with comfort layers of memory foam, latex, polyfoam, and/or minicoils. Because hybrid mattresses use individually encased pocket coils in their support core, these beds can offer a higher level of contouring than a traditional innerspring bed, which relies on a uniform coil grid for support.

However, the softness of a hybrid mattress will ultimately depend on the thickness of the comfort layers, along with what types of materials are used. Hybrid mattresses with memory foam comfort layers, for example, will likely feel softer than a hybrid using latex or polyfoam.

We see this distinction play out with two of the plush mattresses we reviewed above. Our Best Value Soft Mattress, the Spartan by Brooklyn Bedding, has a softer rating (3.5), and includes gel memory foam in its comfort layer. Our Best Soft Hybrid Mattress, The WinkBed, has a higher rating (4.5), and uses polyfoam and microcoils in its comfort layers.

Best Plush Latex Mattresses

Mattress Reviews
PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Mattress Review

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses can be made entirely from natural latex, synthetic latex, or a mix of the two.

The softness of a latex mattress will depend on the density of the latex foams, and the process used to create the latex. Dunlop latex has a denser feel, so you’re more likely to find it in the support layer of a mattress, or in mattresses with higher firmness ratings. Talalay latex, on the other hand, has a much softer, fluffier feel. Talalay latex is commonly used in the comfort layers of latex mattresses, and in mattresses with softer firmness ratings.

Regardless of their construction, however, latex mattresses do not provide an equivalent level of conforming to a memory foam mattress. These beds provide a mix of contouring and support, but without too much sinking. As a result, they tend to sleep much cooler than all-foam beds (aided by the natural breathability of latex, if organic latex is used), and they provide a more responsive surface for sex.

Best Plush Innerspring Mattresses

Mattress Reviews
Saatva Mattress Review

Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses use a uniform grid of steel innerspring coils in their support core, with foam or memory foam in their comfort layers. Because the support layer has a uniformity to it, these mattresses are not necessarily known for their plushness.

However, they can achieve a softer feel if they have thicker comfort layers and use softer foams. The Saatva, our Best Value Soft Mattress, is one such example. This mattress offers a ‘Medium Soft’ (4) model, which features 3.5 inches of polyfoam and memory foam, above another comfort layer of 4-inch pocket coils for additional contour.

Softer innerspring mattresses can be a good choice for people who benefit from the evenly distributed support offered by an innerspring base, but want to enjoy a bit more plushness when they lie down on the mattress surface.

Airbeds

Airbeds use air as their support system, with individual chambers of air that can be adjusted by the sleeper manually using a hand crank or by remote control.

While the idea of adjusting the firmness to your specific preference appeals to many sleepers, it should be noted that these beds generally have thin comfort layers, or none at all. As a result, airbeds are generally not regarded as plush mattresses, nor are they preferred by sleepers seeking an ultra plush mattress.

Other Considerations for Sleepers Interested in a Soft Mattress

Soft mattresses have unique advantages and disadvantages to offer sleepers. Below, we discuss some of the different construction and performance factors shared by plush mattresses. Take a look and consider whether these qualities might improve or impair your sleep experience.

  • Shorter Lifespan

    Softer mattresses often feature more cushioning layers in the comfort system that sag or form indentations. Over time, these can cause sleepers to experience increased pain and pressure.

  • Thickest Mattresses Available

    Due to a higher number of layers in the comfort system, softer mattresses tend to be significantly thicker than firmer models — some measuring up to 16 inches or higher. This may affect how easy it is for you to get in or out of bed.

  • Higher Price-point

    Mattresses that are softer often feature multiple memory foam and/or latex layers in the comfort system, which can drive up the price. Comparatively, firmer mattresses with fewer comfort system layers are the cheapest mattress options.

  • Conforming and Pressure Relief

    Softer mattresses typically offer optimal conforming and pressure relief for people in the below-average and average weight groups because they sink deeply, but not too deeply. Heavier individuals may sink too much with an ultra plush mattress, however, and often prefer Medium to Firm mattresses as a result.

  • Sleeping Hot

    Softer mattresses tend to sleep uncomfortably hot for two reasons. One, they sink deeper than firmer mattresses; this can restrict airflow along the surface of the bed and create a body heat trap. Two, mattresses with multiple foam and memory foam layers — which tend to be softer — usually sleep much warmer than firmer models with one or two foam layers. This is due to the body-heat-retaining properties of mattress foam.

  • Off-Gassing Potential

    Mattresses emit smells known as off-gassing when they are unpackaged. Most odors dissipate after one to two days, but some may linger and be more unpleasant. Most mattresses associated with long-lasting, unpleasant odors contain polyfoam and/or memory foam, and these are the models that also tend to be the softest.

  • Lack of Responsiveness/Not as Good for Sex

    Responsiveness refers to how quickly a mattress responds to the sleeper’s body. Softer mattresses tend to respond the slowest, often due to close conforming — and as a result, they may not be responsive enough for sex compared to Medium/Medium Firm mattresses, which balance responsiveness and softness more effectively.

  • Heavier/Harder to Move

    Softer mattresses with more layers in the comfort system are usually heavier than those with fewer layers. As a result, softer mattresses are generally considered harder to move — although this also depends on mattress type, as some models (such as memory foam) are typically lighter than others (such as innersprings or hybrids) due to the weight and density of their components.

The table below evaluates Soft, Medium/Medium-Firm, and Firm mattresses based on these performance factors:

A softer mattress surface may be your best option if you belong to the below-average or average weight group, or you sleep on your side. If you prefer a firmer mattress, please visit our guide to the Best Firm Mattresses for details. You can also check out our Firmness Guide for more information.

Tips for Buying and Maintaining a Soft Mattress

If you have determined that a softer mattress is most suitable for your sleep needs and preferences, let’s go over a few tips for buying the right model and maintaining it for years to come.

  • Look for Sleep Trials

    Many of today’s mattress manufacturers allow customers to take part in sleep trials. Once a purchase is made, the customer will be able to test out the mattress for a given length of time (usually 90 to 120 nights); if they decide they are not satisfied with the mattress before the trial ends, then they will be able to return the mattress for a full or partial refund — and in some cases, exchange their current mattress for a model with a different firmness rating.

    The best plush mattresses we reviewed above all have sleep trials lasting 100 nights or longer.

  • Dual Firmness Can Help Couples

    Not surprisingly, many couples disagree when it comes to the optimal firmness rating. To accommodate sleep partners with varying preferences, some manufacturers offer mattresses with different firmnesses on each side. While these designs can help both people feel comfortable, it’s important to note that dual-firmness beds can be relatively pricey.

  • Flippable Mattresses Offer Multiple Firmness Options

    In addition to dual-firmness models, a small number of mattress makers offer ‘flippable’ mattresses. These designs feature two comfort layers, each with a different firmness rating, and a shared support core. To adjust the firmness, simply flip the mattress over.

  • Understand Warranty Coverage

    In most cases, mattress manufacturers list excessive sagging and/or indentations as a defect covered under the mattress warranty, provided it reaches a certain depth (usually 1 to 1 1/2 inches, but sometimes lower).

    If your softer mattress begins to sag or indent prematurely, then you may be able to have it repaired or replaced at minimal cost to you. However, most warranties also explicitly say that ‘changes in the owner’s firmness preferences’ are not covered under the warranty.

Match Your Pillows & Bedding

The softness of your mattress should also influence your pillow selection. Because sleepers often sink more deeply into softer mattresses, they may not require as much cushioning for their head — and excessive padding can create pain and pressure in the neck and shoulders. In other words, having a pillow with too much height, or “loft,” can cause your neck and head to curve out of alignment with the rest of your spine, resulting in discomfort.

For this reason, low-loft (or thinner) pillows are generally recommended for softer mattresses, whereas thicker, high-loft pillows are discouraged. If you’re purchasing a soft mattress, you’ll want to purchase pillows with a lower loft. The ideal pillow loft also depends on your sleep position. For example:

  • Side sleepers need more loft from their pillow, in order to fill in the space between their neck and the surface of the mattress. Generally, mid- to high-loft pillows are recommended for side sleepers (3 to 5 inches, or taller). With a soft mattress, however, a pillow closer to medium-loft may be the better choice. Read reviews of the best pillows for side sleepers.
  • Back sleepers need just enough loft to fill in the space created between their shoulders and their neck. Medium-loft pillows are popular among back sleepers. With a soft mattress, a pillow on the lower end of medium-loft (closer to 3 inches) may be most comfortable. Read reviews of the best pillows for back sleepers.
  • Stomach sleepers sleep best with the least amount of loft. The less loft a pillow has, the lower their chances of curving their head back and out of alignment. In fact, many stomach sleepers opt to sleep with no pillow at all to avoid this very scenario. Fortunately, a plush mattress surface can make this more comfortable for stomach sleepers. Read reviews of the best pillows for stomach sleepers.

When purchasing new pillows for your soft mattress, you may want to consider a new sheet set as well. Softer mattresses tend to have higher profiles (a natural result of having thicker comfort layers), so you may need sheets with deeper pocket depths in order to more easily fit them over your mattress.

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