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8 Best Soft Mattresses of 2026: Reviewed by Sleep Experts

Find plush comfort and the support you need with our picks for the best soft mattresses

  • The overall best soft mattress is the Helix Sunset, which combines a plush, airy feel with strong support and a good value.
  • The mattresses in this guide range from $949–$3,449 for a queen size. 
  • Older adults with chronic pain, side sleepers, and those with a lower body weight may prefer a softer mattress.

NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 2,500 hours researching and testing mattresses to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best mattresses, we: 

  • Consulted with sleep specialists like doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists for guidance on choosing the best mattress
  • Put more than 130 models through a series of 19 different tests at our in-house lab
  • Mystery-shopped more than 40 brands
  • Surveyed more than 2,000 older adults on their sleep quality
  • Interviewed experts on the importance of good sleep for older adults
  • Worked with older adult testers to evaluate mattresses and get their opinion
  • Read thousands of verified customer reviews

We’re constantly testing new mattresses and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our mattress review methodology.

When it comes to finding a great mattress, sleep experts tend to recommend a medium-firm one. This common mattress firmness level offers a good balance of comfort and support, and research shows it can improve sleep quality.1 

But soft mattresses can be a better fit in some cases. “Some people enjoy the comfort of sinking into and becoming enveloped in their mattress versus the resistance of a firmer mattress,” says Paul Fath, PT, DPT, OCS, a physical therapist and owner of HUB Physical Therapy in Bedford, Massachusetts. “They will likely prefer the soft, cushioned feeling that provides just enough support but gives the sensation of floating on a cloud.” 

Side sleepers, people with a lighter weight, or anyone who wakes up with aches and pains may find a softer mattress more comfortable. The key is finding a soft mattress that still gives enough support to keep your body in a healthy position.

“Softer mattresses, while comfortable, are often harder to get up off of,” says Heather Swain, PT, DPT, CIDN, CPT, owner of Ally Total Physical Therapy in Toledo, Ohio. “If you are a person with mobility issues, it may not be the right choice. Even if you are currently healthy, if you were to have a hospital stay for a surgery and your muscles became deconditioned, you may find it a little more challenging to get up from a softer bed.” 

We tested many beds to see which ones truly deliver that balance of cushion and support. After testing them at home and in our lab, we found the softest mattresses that stand out for comfort, quality, and value. Here are the best soft mattresses, according to our testing.

Our Top Pick

Helix Sunset

The Helix Sunset mattress
  • Soft, cloudlike feel while still keeping the spine aligned
  • Strong pressure relief scores
  • Responsive, with reinforced edges

Nectar Premier Memory Foam

The Nectar Premier Memory Foam mattress
  • Soft, body-hugging feel
  • Excellent pressure relief for side sleepers
  • 365-night trial, one of the longest among mattresses we tested

Leesa Sapira Chill

The Leesa Sapira Chill mattress
  • Testers gave it a perfect score for side-sleeping support
  • Layers for improved airflow and cooling cover regulate temperature
  • Great pressure relief for both shoulders and hips

Best soft mattresses in 2026

Comparing the best soft mattresses for 2026

Comparison Features

DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam

Visit Sitefor DreamCloud Premier Memory FoamDreamCloud Memory Foam mattress on bed with pillows

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Visit Sitefor Brooklyn Bedding Signature HybridThe Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Score (out of 10)

9.7

9.2

9.8

8.6

8.9

9.5

7.9

8.4

Best for

Overall

Affordable

Side Sleepers

Memory Foam

Luxury

Back Pain

Hybrid

Stomach Sleepers

Brand firmness rating (out of 10)

3

6.5

6

6.5

5

3

6

5

Trial period (nights)

120

365

120

365

120

365

120

120

icon of three people

Understanding accessibility and pain relief scores

Based on our testing, surveys, and focus groups with older adults, we created these two scores: 

  • Accessibility score: The higher the score, the easier it is to get in and out of the bed and change positions. 
  • Pain relief score: The higher the score, the more likely it can help relieve pain.

Top features of the best soft mattresses

We looked for the following features when choosing the best soft mattresses:

Helix Sunset: Best Soft Mattress Overall

We chose the Helix Sunset as the Best Soft Mattress Overall because it offers a soft, cloudlike feel while still supporting your body. It feels plush and cozy but supportive enough to help keep your spine aligned, no matter what position you sleep in. For sleepers who love soft mattresses, this one stood out as both comfortable and dependable.

Helix Sunset

Best Soft Mattress Overall
The Helix Sunset mattress
  • Helix review
  • Plush pillow-top feel with supportive foam and steel coils
  • Reinforced edges for better stability
  • GlacioTex cooling cover designed to help regulate temperature
  • Our pain relief score: 4.57/5
  • Accessibility score: 4.3/5
  • Mattress type: Hybrid
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 3/10

Pros

  • Very soft, puffy feel with strong pressure relief
  • Supportive edges and good responsiveness for a soft bed
  • Fiberglass-free design at a reasonable price

Cons

  • Doesn't completely isolate movement to one side of the bed
  • Very soft feel may not suit people who prefer firm beds
  • Cooling is good, but it can warm slightly after lying in one spot

Why we chose the Helix Sunset as the Best Soft Mattress Overall 

We chose the Helix Sunset as the Best Soft Mattress Overall because it combines a plush feel with strong support, making it one of the softest mattresses we tested that still felt stable. It also earned one of our highest overall testing scores, a 9.7. 

The Sunset performed consistently well across our testing categories, scoring no lower than 4/5 in cooling, bounce, edge support, and motion control. It excelled at pressure relief with a near-perfect 4.67/5 score. The bed's construction includes foam and steel coils, reinforced edges, and a fiberglass-free build, all at a pretty reasonable price for a hybrid mattress.

Our testing experience with the Helix Sunset

When our testers lay down on the mattress, they noticed how soft and inviting it felt, without sacrificing support. “This mattress is easy to push down,” said one tester. “My hand goes through the soft cover easily, then hits the supportive layer.” That mix of plush comfort and support helped the mattress feel balanced rather than overly squishy.

A woman lies on her side on the Helix Sunset hybrid mattress
Testers felt cushioned but still supported on the Helix Sunset hybrid mattress.

Our testers found side sleeping especially comfortable on this mattress, scoring it a 4.5/5. “I feel really good on my side," one tester said. "My body feels even and well aligned. The topper is really plush and comfortable. I could see myself sleeping on this mattress and being very well rested.” Another added, “I feel a good bit of sinkage in the right areas, but feel equally supported. The mattress is hugging me all around. I don’t feel stuck, or like I am lying on a hard surface.” 

Testers also had no trouble moving around on the mattress. “It’s very easy to change positions," said one tester. "The mattress has good support, so there isn’t a big divot anywhere. The topper is soft and plush, but I am still able to move freely.”

A measuring tape shows the compression of the Helix Sunset mattress when a tester sits on the edge.
Even though the Helix Sunset is soft, it still has great edge support.

Edge support was better than expected for such a soft bed. Testers gave it a 4/5. One tester shared, “I think the edge is supportive, and I don’t feel like I am going to slide off. There is some slight sinkage, but nothing of concern. I am able to get up and out easily.” Another said, “I felt supported and safe lying on the edge of this mattress.” 

Cooling and motion control were also solid, though not perfect. In our cooling test, the Sunset increased by only around 7 degrees after testers lay on it, earning the mattress a 4/5. “It does feel cool to the touch," one tester said. "The pillow top feels very cool and breathable. I can feel it warming a little bit under the areas I've been lying on, but it's not uncomfortable. Personally, I would recommend this to someone who may sleep hot.” 

For motion isolation, one tester noted, “I think the plush pillow top did a good job of absorbing the movement on impact, but I could still feel a little movement underneath. It was pretty good overall! I don’t think I would wake up throughout the night from the movement.” That slight movement underneath was one drawback for couples who are very sensitive to motion.

Who is the Helix Sunset right for?

This mattress is a great choice for people who love a deep, cushioned feel but still want support under their hips and back. It works well for side sleepers, combination sleepers, and anyone looking for a soft mattress that feels plush without feeling unstable.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerYes
Have chronic painYes
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsYes
Sleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach

The Helix customer experience

  • Trial period: 120 nights
  • Shipping: Free 
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can reach Helix customer service by:

  • Phone: Call 831-777-5976, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
  • Text: Texting HELIX to 67069, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
  • Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET
  • Email: help@helixsleep.com
  • Website: Submit a contact form

Payment options

Credit card payment options include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Other options include Shop Pay, Amazon Pay, PayPal, and Google Pay. Helix offers financing through Affirm and Katapult.

The company currently offers 30% off for military members, first responders, students, and teachers. The discount code can’t be combined with other promotional codes.

Nectar Premier Memory Foam: Best Affordable Soft Mattress 

We chose the Nectar Premier Memory Foam as the Best Affordable Mattress Overall because it has a pillowy-soft feel and costs less than $1,000 with ongoing discounts. We also like that this mattress has good bounce, which makes it easier to move on than many foam mattresses.

Nectar Premier Memory Foam

Best Affordable Soft Mattress
The Nectar Premier Memory Foam mattress
  • Dense, pressure-relieving foam 
  • Good motion isolation for couples
  • Our pain relief score: 4.2/5
  • Accessibility score: 4.06/5
  • Mattress type: Memory foam
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10

Pros

  • Least expensive mattress on this list after discounts, with a long trial period
  • Excellent pressure relief, especially for side sleepers
  • Good motion isolation

Cons

  • Only average cooling
  • May feel too soft for some sleepers
  • Not the best option for people with mobility issues

Why we chose the Nectar Premier Memory Foam as the Best Affordable Soft Mattress

We chose the Nectar Premier Memory Foam as the Best Affordable Soft Mattress because it balanced comfort and support better than most other soft mattresses we tested at this price. It has a firmness rating of 6.5, but our testers said it felt more like a 4, making it one of the softest-feeling mattresses in this roundup. 

The Nectar Premier earned great scores in our tests, including a 4.17/5 for overall pressure relief, with especially high scores for side sleeping. For that position, it scored highly in our pressure mat tests (5/5) and was well-received by testers, who gave it a 4.5/5 score. It has high bounce (4/5) and above-average edge support, two areas where memory foam often falls short, even in pricier models. Nectar also offers one of the longest trial periods (365 nights) of any mattress brand, plus other perks you can read about in our Nectar mattress review.

Our testing experience with the Nectar Premier Memory Foam

Our testers described the Nectar Premier as feeling silky, smooth, and softer than its brand rating. “The memory foam is very soft,” said one tester. Another tester said, “It feels soft everywhere and a little too soft for my preference.” But if you’re looking for a soft mattress, this could be the exact right feel.

A tester presses down on the top of the Nectar Premier memory foam mattress with her hand
Our testers said the Nectar Premier had a quick response for memory foam.

For all its comfort and cushioning, the Nectar Premier was also responsive. “Pushing down on this mattress, it bounces back quickly,” said one tester. “The mattress doesn’t feel too firm or soft when pushing down on it.” That mix of softness and quick response gave it a balanced feel and made it easier to move on than other memory foam mattresses. The way memory foam contours to the body can sometimes lead to a “stuck” feeling, but that wasn’t the case here. 

“The mattress sinks in, but not too much,” said one tester. “The sinkage feels even and my body is supported. It is hugging me gently.” Another tester noted that people with mobility issues may want to be cautious. “This mattress is pretty soft, so I have to use more of my heels and arms to roll over easily and pick myself out of the mattress,” she said. “Even moving from stomach to back I had to push heavily with my arms.”

A woman lies on her side on a pressure mat on the Nectar Premier memory foam mattress while a screen shows the results.
As soft as the Nectar Premier memory foam mattress felt, it earned one of the only perfect scores for side support in our pressure mat testing.

Testers praised the edge support. “The silky texture of the mattress does not make me feel like I am going to slide off,” our tester said. “The memory foam layers are strong enough to keep me from feeling like I will fall out.” They also gave the Nectar Premier top marks for pressure relief, especially in the side position. “My shoulders and legs are elevated more than my butt,” said another tester. “If you like a soft mattress, this might work for you.” Our pressure mat tests confirmed this with a perfect 5/5 score for side support. These scores are in line with what you might expect from a more expensive mattress.

Testers also found the Nectar Premier excelled at absorbing motion on one side of the bed before it could disturb a partner on the other side. “I can feel the initial bounce, but that's it,” said one. “The energy of the bounce is absorbed by the bed's foam. I don't think it would wake me up.” They rated this mattress a 4/5 for motion isolation.

The Nectar Premier had only average cooling scores, which isn’t too bad given that traditional memory foam tends to retain heat. “The top doesn’t really feel cool to the touch, actually,” said one tester. "The top feels dense, and like it’ll actually trap and increase heat. But lying down, I am contoured, but I’m surprised how well it keeps me cool.” So while the Premier only earned average cooling scores, it performed better than expected during testing.

Who is the Nectar Premier Memory Foam right for?

This mattress could be  a great fit for people looking for a soft mattress that doesn’t break the bank. It's a good option for side sleepers and anyone who loves contouring support. It’s also a smart pick for couples who want less motion transfer. If you prefer a firmer bed or one that stays very cool, this may not be right for you.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerYes
Have chronic painYes
Feel hot at nightNo
Have mobility concernsYes
Sleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach

The Nectar customer experience

  • Trial period: 365 nights
  • Shipping: Free shipping, in-home delivery is available for $199
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can contact Nectar Sleep customer service by:

  • Phone: Call 888-863-2827, available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT
  • Email: support@nectarsleep.com
  • Live chat: Live chat available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT

Payment options

Payment options for Nectar include American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, Google Play, PayPal, and Amazon Pay. Nectar offers financing through Affirm and Splitit and offers a lease-to-own option through Acima.

Military members, first responders, and health care professionals take note: you can get an extra 5% discount.


Leesa Sapira Chill: Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers

We chose the Leesa Sapira Chill as the Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers because it feels plush but still supports key areas for side sleepers, like the shoulders and hips. It also had some of the highest overall scores of any mattress we tested, including a perfect score for side-sleeping pressure relief. 

Leesa Sapira Chill

Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers
The Leesa Sapira Chill mattress
  • Has three firmness options, including plush
  • High-airflow layers to help reduce heat buildup
  • Made in the United States
  • Our pain relief score: 4.78/5
  • Accessibility score: 4/5
  • Mattress type: Hybrid
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 5-7/10

Pros

  • Excellent pressure relief for side sleepers
  • Plush, luxurious feel with strong support underneath
  • Uses cooling foam and fibers to prevent heat buildup

Cons

  • Higher profile (14 inches) may feel too tall for shorter sleepers
  • May require deep-pocket sheets
  • In-home setup costs extra

Why we chose the Leesa Sapira Chill as the Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers

We chose the Leesa Sapira Chill as the Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers because it comes in a plush version and performed exceptionally well at relieving side pressure. During our testing, the mattress offered support under key points like the shoulders, knees, and hips for side sleepers, earning a perfect 5/5 score for that position. It also had one of the highest overall scores of any mattress we tested (9.8/10) and didn’t score below 4/5 in any of our testing categories. We tested the medium-firm option, but the plush version has an even softer feel. 

Our testing experience with the Leesa Sapira Chill 

The Leesa Sapira Chill mattress is a hybrid that combines springs with zoned foam layers for firmer support where you need it most. The cool cover and thick, plush top made a strong first impression on our older adult testers. “This mattress looks very soft and comfortable before I even sat on it,” said one tester. “I like the quilted pattern and the ultra-plush top. It looks very well made and durable.”

A woman’s hand pressing into the top of the Leesa Sapira Chill hybrid mattress.
Testers enjoyed how thick and plush the top of Leesa Sapira Chill hybrid mattress felt, and said it was cool to the touch.

At 14 inches, the Leesa Sapira Chill is noticeably thicker than other mattresses we tested. Our testers had mixed feelings on this. “The height of the mattress is a plus,” said one. “I hate feeling low to the ground when I'm in bed.” But another tester disagreed. “This mattress is a little tall, so if you are short, this may cause some instability while getting on and off,” she said. If you deal with mobility issues of any kind, keep this in mind, as you may prefer a thinner mattress.

Testers were happy with the way this mattress balanced comfort and support. “I think my favorite thing about this mattress is the sinkage,” said one. “You sink right through the comfort layer, and it feels heavenly. There is that supportive layer underneath that helps me feel well aligned, but the plush topper feels luxurious.” Another added, “It feels luxurious, soft, and supportive. It’s soft, but you are not sinking in. It has cooling fibers in the quilt top and high-airflow comfort layers below it to keep it cool.”

Woman lying on her side on the Leesa Sapira Chill hybrid mattress
Testers gave the Leesa Sapira Chill hybrid mattress a perfect 5/5 score for side support.

The zoned support in the lower third of the mattress helped with support, especially when lying on the side. In that position, hips need extra lift, and this mattress provides that. “It feels good on my side,” said one tester. “I honestly love this mattress. It is so comfortable and supportive, and it’s a treat to lie down on at the end of the day.” Our testers gave it a perfect 5/5 score for side support, and our pressure mat testing confirmed this with a matching score. 

Who is the Leesa Sapira Chill right for?

This mattress is a great choice for side sleepers who want deep pressure relief on the shoulders and hips and like a softer feel. It also works well for couples who like a soft, plush feel but still need support to stay aligned. That said, if you have trouble getting into bed on a taller-profile mattress, you may want to look at other options. 

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerYes
Have chronic painYes
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsMaybe*
Sleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach

*Mattress height may affect mobility for shorter sleepers

The Leesa customer experience

  • Trial period: 120 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

  • Phone: Call 844-335-3372, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
  • Text: Text 877-548-5145, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
  • Chat: Automated chat via the bottom left corner of the website, available 24/7. Live chat with a representative available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
  • Email: support@leesa.com 
  • Submit a contact form on the website

Payment options

Credit card payment options include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Other options include Shop Pay, Amazon Pay, Venmo, and PayPal. Leesa offers financing through Affirm and PayPal Credit. 

The company currently offers $50 off for active and retired military members and their family members, as well as teachers, students, medical providers, nurses, and first responders. 

DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam: Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress 

We chose the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam mattress as the Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress because it offers a great mix of comfort, support, and value. It stood out for its contouring feel and even support, and can be a good choice for couples due to its high motion isolation and cooling scores.

Dream Cloud Premier Memory Foam

Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress
DreamCloud Memory Foam mattress on bed with pillows
  • Five-layer memory foam design for comfort and support
  • 365-night trial period and strong overall value
  • Our pain relief score: 3.28/5
  • Accessibility score: 3.57/5
  • Mattress type: Memory foam
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10

Pros

  • Perfect 5/5 motion isolation
  • Good cooling for a memory foam bed (4/5)
  • Great value for the price

Cons

  • Moving around may be harder for people with mobility issues
  • 15-inch height may be too high for some bed frames
  • The mattress ships in a box, which can be difficult to move and handle

Why we chose the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam as the Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress

We chose the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam as the Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress because it combines deep comfort with steady support at a great value. In our testing, it measured 6.5 on the firmness scale but felt slightly softer, closer to a 6. It earned a perfect 5/5 for motion isolation, a solid 3.67/5 for edge support, and a strong 4/5 for cooling, which is impressive for a memory foam mattress. The five-layer design, plush CloudQuilt cover, and price under $1,000 (plus a 365-night trial, one of the longest in the industry) make it a smart pick, as we share in our DreamCloud Mattress review.

Our testing experience with the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam

Our testers said this mattress felt cool and smooth, almost satiny to the touch. “The mattress conforms to the shape of your hand and bounces back quickly,” said one tester. “The memory foam is soft but not too firm.” Testers described the mattress as having that gentle hug many people want from soft mattresses but without too much sinking. “I feel like I am on the mattress rather than in the mattress,” said one tester.

Woman touching the surface of the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam mattress
Testers described the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam mattress as cool, smooth, and slightly softer than its brand rating.

We tested the DreamCloud's motion isolation by having one tester lie in the bed and another climb in and move around on the other side. Ultimately, we were impressed and gave the mattress a 5/5 score. “I felt a little bit of the foam pulling toward the other person, but I definitely could have slept through it,” said one tester. “No bouncing, my body feels very much in the same position as it did before the other person got in.” 

But edge support was mixed. When sitting, one tester said, “The mattress does bulge out when I sit down, and I think my body sinks in pretty far. I don’t feel like I will fall out, but I don’t feel very secure either. The mattress does have a springy effect when I rise, but the memory foam topper takes a second to get back in shape.” Lying down near the edge felt better. “I don’t feel like I am going to roll off,” the tester said. “My butt is sinking in more, but my body feels supported. I feel way more secure lying down than I did seated. The edge is staying intact and not bulging like it was.”

Woman lying near the edge of the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam mattress
Testers felt the support of the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam mattress was stronger near the edge when lying down compared to sitting.

Switching positions on such a soft-feeling mattress took a little effort. “I definitely need to push off with my heels,” said one tester. “The memory foam conforms to my body more, taking a little more effort than normal to switch positions.” 

Our testers were surprised by the DreamCloud’s ability to prevent heat buildup. “This mattress is memory foam, so the cooling properties are usually not the greatest,” said one. “But this mattress performed really well. As I lay on this mattress, I felt more temperature neutral.” In our tests, the DreamCloud had less than a 7-degree change in temperature after use, earning it a 4/5 score. 

Who is the DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam right for?

The DreamCloud Premier could be a great choice for couples who like a soft memory foam mattress with strong motion isolation and cooling. It’s also a good fit for back sleepers and some side sleepers who like a soft but steady feel. It may not be the best pick for people who have trouble moving around in bed or getting in and out easily.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerYes
Have chronic painNo
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsYes
Sleep in the following positionsSide and back

The DreamCloud customer experience

  • Trial period: 365 nights
  • Shipping: White-glove delivery is $199
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can reach DreamCloud customer service by:

Payment options

You can pay for your DreamCloud mattress using American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, PayPal, Google Pay, and Amazon Pay. DreamCloud has also partnered with Affirm, PayPal Credit, Splitit, and Acima to provide financing options.

DreamCloud offers an extra 5% off the best on-site offer to military members and their dependents, health care professionals, and first responders. DreamCloud uses SheerID to verify your status.

WinkBed GravityLux: Best Soft Luxury Mattress

We chose the WinkBed GravityLux as the Best Soft Luxury Mattress because it offers a plush, high-end feel while still keeping your body well-supported. This memory foam mattress stood out for its high-quality materials and construction, strong cooling and motion-isolation features, and firmness options. 

WinkBed GravityLux

Best Soft Luxury Mattress
The Winkbeds GravityLux
  • WinkBed review
  • AirCell memory foam is designed to reduce motion transfer and help with cooling
  • Targeted support foam in the low back area
  • Quilted, plush comfort layer for a soft, hotel-like feel
  • Our pain relief score: 3.58/5
  • Accessibility score: 4.58/5
  • Mattress type: Memory foam
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 5/10

Pros

  • Excellent motion isolation for couples
  • Strong edge support for using the full bed
  • Plush, luxury feel with durable materials

Cons

  • Average bounce, so it’s not very springy
  • Medium-firm model may feel too firm for people who want deep sink
  • No white-glove delivery

Why we chose the WinkBed GravityLux as the Best Soft Luxury Mattress 

We chose the WinkBed GravityLux as the Best Soft Luxury Mattress because it combines a plush, high-end feel with strong performance in key comfort and durability areas. In our testing, it earned a perfect motion isolation score of 5/5. But it also excelled at cooling (4/5) and had great edge support (4.33/5), features you don’t see in lower-quality foam mattresses. 

WinkBed offers three firmness levels, and we tested the medium-firm option, which balanced softness and support well. The brand also offers a plush version for those who want an even softer feel. You can learn more in our WinkBed mattress review, where we go deeper into the brand and its perks.

Our testing experience with the WinkBed GravityLux

Lower-quality foam mattresses use less-dense foams that won’t hold up over time. But the WinkBed GravityLux has denser, specialized foams that help with things like airflow and support. Testers were impressed that a foam mattress could be so stable and supportive, even near the edges. “Sitting down on the bed, I feel supported and don’t feel like I am bottoming out,” said one tester. The bed assists me when rising, and I don’t have to use my hands. This has great edge support.” This matched what we saw in testing, where the perimeter stayed firm and steady.

Woman sitting on the edge of the WinkBed GravityLux
For an all-foam mattress, the WinkBed GravityLux had surprisingly sturdy edges, according to our testers.

Testers felt equally secure and well-supported lying on the WinkBed GravityLux. “The edge does a good job of not collapsing when I’m lying down,” said one tester. “It’s good at dispersing my weight. I don’t feel like I am going to roll out.” This strong edge performance makes it easier to spread out or share the bed.

We also looked at how it felt to change positions. Memory foam mattresses can sometimes feel slow to respond, but that wasn’t the case here. “I can easily move around on the mattress,” said one tester. “There is nothing in the mattress obstructing me, and the responsiveness is so good it moves me along as I change positions.” 

Woman’s hand pressing down on the surface of the WinkBed GravityLux
Our testers said the WinkBed GravityLux felt cool and responsive, which are both uncommon for lower-quality memory foam.

The GravityLux excelled at preventing heat buildup and minimizing motion transfer, earning perfect 5/5 scores in both categories. “The mattress felt great lying here,” said one tester. “It felt the coolest and did a good job of not warming up.” WinkBeds uses what it calls the next generation of memory foam, AirCell, to absorb motion and disperse heat. Our testers noticed a difference. “This mattress had some of the best motion isolation,” said one. “The dense layers of memory foam act as a great buffer to stop motion.”

Because we only tested the medium-firm version of this mattress, some testers noted that it didn’t have the deep, slow sink that some people expect from very soft foam beds. People who want a more pillowy feel may prefer the plush version. You can read more about the options in our WinkBed mattress review.

Who is the WinkBed GravityLux right for?

The WinkBeds GravityLux could be a great fit for couples who want a luxury feel, very little motion transfer, and strong edge support so they can use the whole bed. It’s also a good choice for sleepers who like soft mattresses that still keep the body lifted through the night.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerYes
Have chronic painNo
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsYes
Sleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach

The WinkBeds customer experience

  • Trial period: 120 nights
  • Shipping: Free 
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can reach WinkBeds customer service by:

  • Phone: Call 855-946-5233, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
  • Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
  • Email: info@winkbeds.com

Payment options

Credit card payment options include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Other options include Shop Pay and Google Pay. WinkBeds offers financing through Bread and Katapult. 

The company currently offers an additional $50 off for military members and their families, first responders, law enforcement, and health care workers. 

Saatva Rx: Best Soft Mattress for Back Pain

We chose the Saatva Rx as the Best Soft Mattress for Back Pain because it felt ultra-plush while still supporting our backs. In our tests, it stood out among soft mattresses for its great pressure relief and excellent support, making it feel both gentle and stable at the same time. It’s a strong choice if you want the comfort of a forgiving mattress without losing the support your back needs.

Saatva Rx

Best Soft Mattress for Back Pain
The Saatva Rx mattress
  • Saatva review
  • Soothes chronic back and joint pain 
  • Supports and cradles joints to ease pain
  • Excellent pressure relief in all positions
  • Targeted support keeps the spine aligned
  • Our pain relief score: 4.32/5
  • Accessibility score: 4.04/5
  • Mattress type: Hybrid
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 6.5/10

Pros

  • Very soft, plush feel with strong back support
  • Excellent pressure relief and easier movement
  • Good cooling and high bounce

Cons

  • Average motion isolation
  • Edge support is weaker than some competitors
  • Higher price than many soft mattresses

Why we chose the Saatva Rx as the Best Soft Mattress for Back Pain

We chose the Saatva Rx as Best Soft Mattress for Back Pain because it had the second-lowest brand firmness rating of any mattress we tested (3.5/10) and a truly cushioned feel that still maintains good spinal support. 

This mattress was specifically designed to relieve back pain, and our tests confirmed that. It earned 5/5 for bounce, 4/5 for cooling, and 4.5/5 for pressure relief overall. Our testers thought the surface felt like the best plush mattress—soft and almost weightless—but the coil system kept them both lifted and aligned. Drawbacks include just average motion isolation and weaker edge support (2.83/5), so the mattress may not work well for couples who wake easily or people who rely heavily on the bed's edge. You can learn more about its construction and performance in our Saatva mattress review.

Our testing experience with the Saatva Rx

When we first lay down on the Saatva Rx, the feel was noticeably softer than many hybrid beds we’ve tested. The top layers let our shoulders and hips sink in gently, creating a floating, cloudlike sensation. But underneath that softness was a steady, supportive base that kept our spines from sagging. The mattress was easier to move around on, which helped it feel comfortable in every sleeping position.

One tester noticed the balanced feel right away. “[Lying on my back], this mattress really hugs you evenly,” they said. The tester also noted their spine stayed straight, with their hips sinking in just enough to keep their body aligned.

The mattress also stood out for side sleeping. “I feel supported down my side, my legs, hips, and my shoulder does not have pressure on it,” one tester said. “My weight feels evenly distributed, and my spine feels neutral. This mattress does a good job of contouring my body.” 

Moving around on the mattress was smooth, which is important for people with back pain. “It feels good switching positions,” said one tester. “It’s not hindering me from moving.” Still, there were a few drawbacks. Some testers felt the edges compressed more than expected, and one noted, “When getting off the bed, it does not spring fast or assist me. The edge support isn’t bad, but it’s not the best I have experienced.” We also noticed that movement from a partner could be felt more than on some other plush beds.

Who is the Saatva Rx right for?

The Saatva Rx could be a great fit for people with back pain who want a softer, more cushioned feel without losing support. Its pressure-relieving foam, responsive micro-coil system, and breathable cooling cover help keep sleepers comfortable and aligned through the night.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerYes
Have chronic painYes
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsYes
Sleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach

Saatva customer experience

  • Trial period: 365 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • In-home setup and mattress removal: Free
  • Warranty: One-year limited

Customer service

You can contact Saatva customer service by:

Payment options

Payment options include Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Google Pay, and PayPal. Saatva offers financing options through Affirm.

Note that Saatva offers $225 off a purchase of $1,000 or more to adults 65 and older, military members and their families, health care professionals, government employees, and more. This cannot be combined with other offers.

Bear Elite Hybrid: Best Soft Hybrid Mattress

We chose the Bear Elite Hybrid as the Best Soft Hybrid Mattress because it feels as soft as an all-foam bed but has the responsive support of innersprings. Our testing found it to be evenly supportive in every sleeping position, with a soft, cushioned feel. It also stayed cool at night, with top scores for temperature regulation.

Bear Elite Hybrid

Best Soft Hybrid Mattress
Bear Elite Hybrid mattress on a white background
  • Hybrid design with memory foam layers and individually wrapped coils
  • Celliant-infused cooling cover designed to help regulate temperature
  • Quilted plush top that adds softness and pressure relief
  • Our pain relief score: 3.53/5
  • Accessibility score: 3.54/5
  • Mattress type: Hybrid
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 6/10

Pros

  • Very soft, plush feel with supportive coils underneath
  • Even pressure relief in all sleeping positions
  • Good cooling and bounce for easier movement

Cons

  • Poor motion isolation, so partners may feel movement
  • Edge support is weaker when sitting or getting up
  • Some sleepers may find hips sink slightly too much in softer areas

Why we chose the Bear Elite Hybrid as the Best Soft Hybrid Mattress

We chose the Bear Elite Hybrid as the Best Soft Hybrid Mattress because it balances deep cushioning with strong support from its coil system. It rated highly for bounce (4/5), which helps sleepers feel like they're on top of the mattress and can move uninhibited, without feeling stuck. A lot of soft mattresses lack this kind of support. Our pressure map readings showed solid 4/5 scores in every sleeping position, meaning weight was spread evenly across the mattress surface. 

The main trade-off was motion isolation, which scored only a 2/5 in our tests. So this may not be the best soft mattress for light sleepers who share a bed. But for anyone looking for a soft hybrid mattress that offers even support, the Bear Elite is a good choice.

Our testing experience with the Bear Elite Hybrid

Our testers commented on this mattress’s plush quilted topper and soft feel. “This one has more texture to it,” said one tester. “You can feel the quilting on it more.” That quilted layer added to the mattress’s plush feel. “It’s hugging my body gently, but not too much,” said a tester. “My entire body sinks into the mattress but not too much in one area.”

The combination of springs and foam layers made this bed feel soft, yet still supportive. “My body feels equally supported,” said one combination sleeper. “This one feels pretty even on my side. My spine feels neutral. If anything, my lumbar and hips feel like they are sinking in, maybe a little too much, but nothing too noticeable.” The Bear Elite Hybrid uses zoned support under the low back and hips to maintain a neutral spine. 

Cooling was generally good, due to the Celliant-infused top. These man-made fibers are designed to capture and convert body heat into infrared energy, so you don’t overheat at night. “The top feels cool to the touch,” said one tester. “Ultimately, it didn’t heat up too much.”

There were a few drawbacks. Edge support was only average, especially when sitting or leaning forward. “I feel like you need your hands to assist you on this bed,” said one tester. Motion transfer was also noticeable. We asked a tester to lie in bed while we got in and out and moved around on the other side. “When you changed positions, my whole body did a little bounce, especially my shoulders,” said the tester. “I don’t think it would wake me, but if I were a light sleeper, I think I would be woken up.”

Who is the Bear Elite Hybrid right for?

This mattress could be a good fit for people who want a cushioned feel but still need real support under their back and hips. It’s also a good choice for combination sleepers who move around and want a bed that’s easier to change positions on. It’s not the best choice for couples.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerNo
Have chronic painYes
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsYes
Sleep in the following positionsSide, back, stomach

The Bear customer experience

  • Trial period: 120 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • In-home setup and mattress removal: $100–$200
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

You can contact Bear customer service by:

  • Phone: 844-311-0035, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
  • Email: support@bearmattress.com
  • Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET

Payment options

Bear accepts MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Venmo, and Google Pay. Financing is available through Affirm and ShopPay.

The brand currently offers a 40% discount for military members, first responders, law enforcement, health care workers, and teachers. This discount can’t be combined with other promotional codes.

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid: Best Soft Mattress for Stomach Sleepers

We chose the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid as the Best Soft Mattress for Stomach Sleepers because it felt even softer than it is and earned high overall support scores, especially when stomach sleeping. It can be tough to get good support when lying facedown, but our testing found this mattress provided that with a plush, softer-than-usual feel. 

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Best Soft Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
  • Cushioned feel that still keeps the spine aligned for stomach sleeping
  • Breathable construction to help reduce heat buildup
  • Our pain relief score: 3.57/5
  • Accessibility score: 3.59/5
  • Mattress type: Hybrid
  • Brand’s firmness rating: 5/10

Pros

  • Very soft, pressure-relieving feel for stomach sleepers
  • Strong bounce makes it easier to move and change positions
  • Good cooling for a softer mattress

Cons

  • Edge support could be stronger
  • Motion from a partner can be noticeable compared with all-foam beds

Why we chose the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid as the Best Soft Mattress for Stomach Sleepers

We chose the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid as the Best Soft Mattress for Stomach Sleepers because our older adult testers rated it as even softer (3/10) than its brand rating (5/10), and it supported the spine and relieved pressure when they were lying on their stomachs. It earned top scores (4/5) in our pressure tests for stomach sleeping, and an average pressure relief score of 4.67/5. Testers also said they liked it best in that position and gave it the highest score (4/5) for stomach-sleeping support. Based on this feedback, we featured it as one of our best mattresses for stomach sleepers.

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid also stayed cool and comfortable, with testers rating it a 4/5 for temperature control. Although it has a plush feel, it was also one of the bounciest mattresses we tested, with a perfect 5/5 score. Our testers said its high bounce kept them from feeling stuck in the mattress or unable to change positions. It’s also priced affordably for a hybrid mattress. 

Our testing experience with the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

This mattress is already on the low end of the medium-firm range (5/10), and our older adult testers thought it felt much softer (3/10). It also comes in a softer option, which we didn’t test. “The cover has a dense memory foam feel,” said one tester. “It feels soft, but there is dimpling in the cover. It doesn't have the large quilting like some covers, but it is really textured.” Testers also noted that this is a pretty bouncy mattress, which can be a plus for soft mattresses because it prevents you from feeling so sunk in that it's difficult to change positions. “The mattress bounces back immediately when pushing in,” said one tester. 

Woman pressing down on the surface of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature mattress
Our testers said the textured top of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress felt soft and was quick to bounce back.

One of this mattress’s strong suits was pressure relief. It had high scores in our pressure mat tests (4.67/5 overall) and was rated a 4/5 for stomach sleepers. It can be difficult to find a mattress that supports the spine well in that position, but our testers gave it the highest marks (4/5) across all positions they tried. “I feel like this mattress is really good for stomach sleeping because of how soft it is,” said one. “As a woman, I need more relief or sinkage on my stomach. My spine feels really aligned, and I feel comfortable.” Other testers said the springs helped keep their hips from dipping too far, even though the top felt very plush.

Woman lying facedown on a pressure map on the Brooklyn Bedding Signature mattress
Our pressure mat tests found that the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress had great support for stomach sleepers.

The Signature Hybrid also got high scores for cooling (4/5). This mattress uses cooling memory foam and a GlacioTex cooling cover to wick heat away during the night. In our tests, the mattress increased in temperature by fewer than 10 degrees after use. “This mattress feels room temperature or a little colder,” said one tester. “It doesn't feel like it's increasing heat that much.”

One of our testers’ biggest complaints was poor motion isolation. Because the mattress is so bouncy, the movement of one partner can be felt on the other side. “I felt a lot in my shoulders, which then went to my neck,” said one tester. “Initially, if you got into bed, I might be able to sleep through that, but when you twisted, I felt it the most. I didn't feel like I bounced, but the motion did disturb me. It felt like a ripple effect. The repositioning, I think, would have woken me up.”

Who is the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid right for?

This mattress could be a great choice for people who like a soft hybrid mattress and stomach sleepers who want good support. It may not feel as balanced for every sleeping position, and may not work well for couples. It is a good choice for people who prefer a soft cooling mattress.

I may love it if I:
Sleep with a partnerNo
Have chronic painYes
Feel hot at nightYes
Have mobility concernsNo
Sleep in the following positionsStomach

The Brooklyn Bedding customer experience

  • Trial period: 120 nights
  • Shipping: Free
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Customer service

While mystery shopping, our team found Brooklyn Bedding to be inconsistent with its support hours. The website currently lists the following customer service avenues:

  • Phone: Call 623-624-1222, available Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, and Saturday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET 
  • Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET and Saturday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET
  • Email: support@brooklynbedding.com 
  • Website: Submit a contact form

Payment options

Accepted credit card payments include: MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, Amazon Pay, Shop Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. Financing through Brooklyn Bedding is available through Affirm.

The company currently offers 5% off for military members, first responders, medical providers, students, and teachers. The discount code can’t be combined with other promotional codes.

Our process testing the best soft mattresses

Our team has spent thousands of hours researching and testing mattresses so you can feel confident in our reviews. For this roundup, we personally tested more than 30 mattresses with a particular focus on comfort and cushion. Each mattress was tested by older adults to ensure we have real-world data on its performance in motion isolation, pressure relief, edge support, cooling, and more. If you’d like to see more mattress options for every type of sleeper, read our roundup of the best mattresses for seniors. To find the best soft mattresses, we looked at the following features:

Pain relief

A good night’s sleep can be harder to get as pain-related sleep interruptions become more common with age.2 For that reason, it was important to ensure that the mattresses on our list earned high pain-relief scores. We used a special scoring method that factored in firmness, pressure relief, and support to decide how well each mattress eased pain. If you’re interested in more pain relief options, read our review of the best mattresses for sciatica.  

Pressure relief 

To measure pressure relief, testers lie on each mattress with a pressure mat underneath. The mat has sensors that show areas of pressure buildup on a color-coded thermal map. Blue and green mean low pressure, which is what we want to see in key areas like the shoulders, hips, and knees. We looked for good pressure relief readings for all sleeping positions. 

Spinal support

It’s important that your mattress keeps your spine aligned, especially if it is soft. We tested spinal support by having older adults lie on the mattresses on their backs, sides, and stomachs and rate how comfortable and supported they felt in each position. We asked them to note how much pressure they felt under their hips, knees, shoulders, and other joints, and whether their spine felt curved or in alignment. 

Firmness

How firm a mattress feels can vary depending on body weight, personal preference, and other factors. We evaluated mattresses not only by their given firmness rating, but also by how firm each felt to our testers. Check out our best firm mattress guide for more insight.

Value

Mattresses can range in price quite a bit. The cost depends on size, materials, and construction, among other factors. But we also looked at what you get for that price. Some brands offer free shipping or extended trial periods, or will remove your old mattress. We also considered what kind of warranty is offered on the mattress. 

Who should consider a soft mattress?

When mattress shopping, you’ll likely notice that medium-firm seems to be the most popular option. “Generally, we try to stick to recommending medium-firm mattresses for various reasons such as spinal and joint support, and improved respiration during sleep,” says Chelsie Rohrscheib, PhD, a sleep expert, neuroscientist, and sleep consultant with Wesper, a sleep diagnostics company. “With that said, sometimes a soft mattress may be beneficial.” 

People who may benefit from a soft mattress include:

  • Side sleepers: “Side sleepers may sleep better on a softer mattress because it doesn't place as much pressure on the shoulders, hips and knees,” says Rohrscheib. Those are areas where pressure tends to build up in that position.
  • Lighter-weight sleepers: “To small individuals with a lower body weight, a medium-firm mattress may feel more like a classic firm mattress because their body weight isn't high enough to compress the mattress,” says Rohrscheib. So people with a lower body weight may feel supported by and more comfortable on a softer mattress.
  • Older adults: A plush mattress can feel gentler on aging joints and may help reduce morning stiffness or soreness.
  • People with chronic pain: “Some individuals with heightened sensitivity due to chronic pain issues like arthritis or nerve pain may find that a medium-firm mattress is too hard on sore areas,” says Rohrscheib. A softer mattress may feel gentler on those spots.
  • Sleepers who simply prefer a softer feel: Some people just sleep better on a soft mattress. As long as it doesn't cause them any health concerns, that’s fine, says Rohrscheib. Personal comfort is an important part of good sleep. 

What to look for when choosing a soft mattress

Firmness is only one thing to keep in mind when shopping for a mattress. The best soft mattresses balance comfort with support so your body and spine stay aligned. “If your preference is for a soft mattress, you should look for one that is made of high-quality, breathable materials that offer evenly distributed support across your whole body,” says Rohrscheib. “The mattress should be known for holding its form for at least five years. Mattresses with noticeable dips and bumps should be avoided.”

Here are some other features to look for:

Zoned support systems 

Zoned support uses denser foam or reinforced coils to add extra strength in the center to lower third of the mattress. This added firmness can provide more lower back support and keep it from sinking too far. This can be helpful for side sleepers, who need more support in that region. 

Hybrid construction 

Hybrid mattresses use foam for cushioning and coils for support. This mix can give you the feel of the softest mattress without feeling stuck in it. It helps with ease of movement and pressure relief.

Support layers under a soft top

Many soft beds have firmer layers underneath a plush topper to keep the spine aligned. This balance helps prevent sagging while still feeling super soft.

Cooling features

Gel foams, breathable covers, and airflow through coils can help prevent overheating, making a soft bed more comfortable all night for hot sleepers.

Edge support and motion isolation

Strong edges make it easier to sit or sleep near the side, and motion isolation helps reduce sleep disturbance from movement.

Trial periods and warranties

A good trial period lets you make sure the mattress truly works for you. A solid warranty helps protect your investment in the best plush mattress that should last for years

How much do the best soft mattresses cost?

The mattresses in this guide range from $949–$3,449 for a queen size (without discounts). Many factors affect a mattress’s cost, including size, materials and construction, warranty length, and added features. 

Comparison Features

Helix Sunset

The Helix Sunset mattress

Nectar Premier Memory Foam

The Nectar Premier Memory Foam mattress

Leesa Sapira Chill

The Leesa Sapira Chill mattress

DreamCloud Premier Memory Foam

DreamCloud Memory Foam mattress on bed with pillows

WinkBed GravityLux

The Winkbeds GravityLux

Saatva Rx

The Saatva Rx mattress

Bear Elite Hybrid

Bear Elite Hybrid mattress on a white background

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Cost for a queen

$1,332

$949

$2,467

$1,199

$2,570

$3,449

$2,427

$1,732

Shipping costs

Free

Free

Free

Free

Free

Free

Free

Free

White glove delivery available?

No

Yes, $199

Yes, $179

Yes, $199

No

Yes, free

Yes, $175

Yes, free for orders $1,500+

$199 under $1,500

Warranty length

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Limited lifetime

Return fees

None

None

None

None

None

$99

None

$99

Frequently asked questions

What kind of mattress is the softest?

When people ask about the softest mattress, they are usually talking about thick memory foam or pillow-top beds that let the body sink in. These kinds of soft mattresses feel gentle and deeply cushioned.

Which mattress feels like a cloud?

Mattresses that claim to feel like a cloud are often plush with fluffy top layers that cradle you as you lie down. Many shoppers looking for the best soft mattress say this light, floating feeling is what they want most.

Which mattress is best for softness?

The best soft mattress is one that has deep comfort layers and a soft, cozy top that eases pressure on the shoulders and hips. That is why many soft mattresses use memory foam or thick quilting to boost softness.

Are soft mattresses good for side sleepers and older adults?

Yes, soft mattresses can be a great choice for side sleepers and older adults because they cushion joints and pressure points. Many side sleepers and older adults prefer a plush mattress since it feels gentle on hips, shoulders, and knees.

How does a soft mattress compare to a medium or firm mattress for pressure relief?

A soft mattress can provide good pressure relief if it has support underneath its cushioning layers. It can also support certain sleeping positions by allowing heavier parts to sink in more, keeping the spine in a neutral position. The best soft mattress often feels more comfortable on sore joints.

Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.

Sources

  1. Hu X., et al. The Effect of Mattress Firmness on Sleep Architecture and PSG Characteristics. Nature and Science of Sleep. May 9, 2025. Found on the internet at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12071755/
  2. Morelhão P.K., et al. Musculoskeletal pain during the night and its relationship to sleep quality and poor sleep perception among older adults. Sleep Epidemiology. December 2021. Found on the internet at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667343621000068

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