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Some people prefer to sleep on a soft mattress. Choosing the softest mattress may provide comfort that supports sleep. However, soft mattresses may not offer enough spinal support for back or stomach sleepers.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Note that prices are for Queen sized mattresses unless otherwise stated.
MNT chooses mattresses, sheets, pillows, and other bedding that meet the following criteria:
Certifications:MNT will choose products that have CertiPUR-US or other certifications. This means that the products are low in pollutants and free from heavy metals and volatile organic compounds.
Size: MNT chooses products that are available in various sizes.
Materials and fill:MNT selects products with different materials and fills, such as memory foam and latex, to suit a range of sleep and lifestyles.
Budget: MNT features products to suit a wide range of budgets.
Firmness: MNT selects mattresses available in a range of firmness options to suit most people’s sleeping styles.
Sleep trials:MNT chooses companies that offer a sleep trial.
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A person looking for a soft mattress may consider some of the following points:
Size: A person should consider whether their chosen mattress will fit their bedframe, whether it will be high or low enough to get in and out of comfortably, and whether it will be big enough to accommodate everyone sleeping in it.
Targeted support: Some people may prefer mattresses with different levels of support in different areas of the mattress, for instance, more support in the middle of the mattress to keep the lower back aligned. Other people may prefer softer support in these areas to relieve pressure on the hips. When choosing a mattress, a person should consider if they have any back, hip, or shoulder pain.
Cost: Some mattresses can be expensive. A person should consider the features they need in a mattress and how that will suit their budget.
Motion isolation: Some may find motion isolation important if they typically sleep with another person in the bed.
Sleep temperature: Ensuring the room and bed are comfortable is important when working to improve their sleep quality or duration. Many mattresses contain cooling foam or topper materials to draw heat away from a person’s body and increase airflow through the mattress. If a person feels that foam mattresses will be too hot to sleep on, they may wish to consider other types of mattresses, such as innerspring mattresses, or those filled with other materials, such as wool.
Sleep on their side: Soft mattresses may be good for side sleepers as their hips and shoulders sink into the mattress slightly, helping to cradle the body and provide support.
Have a lower body mass index (BMI): A lighter person will place less pressure on a mattress, and the reduced pressure may prove more comfortable. People with a higher BMI may benefit from a firmer mattress that keeps the spine in a neutral alignment while preventing them from sinking into the mattress.
Do not have back problems: Those with any back problems may need increased support. Therefore, a soft mattress may not provide the required support for these individuals.
Are in a couple: Softer mattresses may have limited motion transfer in comparison to firmer mattresses.
Have joint or hip pain: Those with joint or hip pain may find that softer mattresses cushion these areas, helping to relieve pain. Due to this, a soft mattress may be beneficial for some older adults.
Few studies have investigated the long-term effects of different types of mattresses. Partly, this is due to variations in mattress structure, materials, and proprietary technology, which create difficulties for scientists to draw accurate comparisons across products.
A 2021 systematic review of 39 studies investigated which type of mattress promoted comfort, sleep quality, and spinal alignment. The researchers classified the different mattress types according to firmness, rating them as “soft,” “medium-firm,” or “extra-firm.” They concluded that a medium-firm mattress can help to alleviate low back pain and improve sleep quality in people with non-specific low back pain.
However, the type of mattress a person chooses will vary based on preference. Some people may prefer a soft, sinkable mattress that contours their body, helping to alleviate joint and muscle pain. A soft mattress may also benefit light sleepers who find falling asleep on a firmer mattress difficult.
Ideally, people should choose a mattress with a free trial period to see how it feels before committing to it.
Mattress brands typically include three or more layers in their soft mattress models. However, each brand of mattress will include different materials in different thicknesses. As such, a person may wish to try their chosen mattress at home or try it out in a store to see if it suits their needs.
A person with a latex allergy should avoid soft latex mattresses.
How do I find the softest mattress?
The best way to find the softest mattress is to visit an outlet where people can try several mattresses. Firmness is subjective, so being able to compare how mattresses feel may be the best way to find the softest mattress.
Is ultra plush the softest mattress?
Ultra plush is one of the softest mattress choices available. This type of mattress may be best for side sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds.
Is ultra-plush the softest mattress?
Ultra-plush mattresses may be the softest option. However, firmness is subjective, and some people may find other mattress options softer.
Sleep is important for maintaining overall health and well-being. A comfortable mattress that provides a good balance of comfort and support can help a person improve their sleep quality and duration.
When choosing the best soft mattress, a person should consider their individual preferences and any health considerations they have to consider, such as back pain. Soft mattresses may not be suitable for people who sleep on their backs or stomach. Additionally, heavier people may not find soft mattresses comfortable. However, soft mattresses may be suitable for pressure point relief.
Many mattress brands offer sleep trials of 100 nights or more so a person can test their chosen mattress and exchange it if necessary.
If a person has concerns about sleep or experiences back pain that will not go away, they should consult a healthcare professional for advice.
Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
