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Best Soft Mattresses

When you look up at the clouds, do you wish you could lie on top of them? If so, then you probably prefer an extra-cozy plush mattress to an especially firm one.

A soft bed can feel like a cushioned sanctuary at the end of your day, and the best soft mattresses will strike a balance between their snug surfaces and their support features. They’re a good fit for side sleepers, lightweight people, and anyone looking for pronounced pressure relief.

In an effort to help folks find the cloud-like bed of their dreams, we’ve sifted through the softest mattresses out there and built this list of our 10 favorites.

Best Soft Mattresses

My Video Review of The Best Soft Mattresses

Compare the Best Soft Mattresses

Helix Sunset Mattress Nectar Premier Hybrid DreamCloud Premier Mattress WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress Nolah Signature 12 Saatva Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Helix Sunset Mattress Nectar Premier Hybrid DreamCloud Premier Mattress WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress Saatva Mattress Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Rating
4.0
4.2
4.0
4.5
4.0
4.2
4.3
4.0
4.1
Firmness Medium: 5.5/10 Medium: 5/10 Medium: 5.5/10 Medium-firm: 6/10 Medium-firm: 6/10 Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6/10 Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6/10
Material Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Foam Foam Innerspring Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid
Cooling
Warranty 10-year warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime warranty Lifetime Warranty 10-year warranty 10-year warranty
Shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping Free white glove delivery Free shipping Free shipping Free shipping
Trial Period 100 nights 365 nights 365 nights 120 nights 120 nights 365 nights 120 nights 120 nights 100 nights
Best For Joint Pain, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples, Back Pain Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers Side Sleepers, Back Pain Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors Couples, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hip Pain

How We Test the Best Soft Mattresses

At Sleep Advisor, our mattress reviews are based on findings from in-person tests that allow us to have a genuine understanding of how the mattress feels and performs. We look at features that are valuable to consumers, such as temperature control, bounce, edge support, and motion isolation.

Our diverse cast of testers is made up of different-sized folks with different preferences. We’ll evaluate mattress performance while laying on our back, side, and stomach to cover all the bases. After we measure how it performs, we’ll give you all the details in an easy-to-understand format, so you can decide whether a bed is best for you.

For more, check out our testing methodology.

Loren Bullock is a lead product tester at Sleep Advisor
We test mattresses every week.

What We Look for in the Best Soft Mattresses

Cushioning Comfort Layers

Softness starts at the top, whether it’s memory foam, latex, or some other cushy material. The current beds on our list all boast cradling memory foam layers on the surface. Some of them even have pillow tops for that luxury plush feel.

Support to Back it Up

It’s not enough for a bed to just be “soft.” A soft bed with no support will have you sinking uncomfortably instead of feeling like you’re sleeping on a cloud. Whether it’s foam or coils, all these beds should maintain enough lift for your needs.

Our Picks for the Best Soft Mattresses

Helix Sunset – Editor’s Pick

Editor’s Pick
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Helix
Helix Sunset Mattress
Cushiony Feel
Copper-Infused Foam
Pillow Top Option
Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Black Friday Sale
Use code BF25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$936.25 – $1,748.75 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
The cushier end of medium-firm. It registered as a 5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Side Sleeper
Side Sleepers
As one of the softer beds in Helix’s lineup, this mattress was literally designed for side sleepers.
Pain Relief
Sore Joints
We gave it a perfect pressure-relief score for its ability to cradle sensitive joints like hips and shoulders.
Heavier Sleeper
Petite People
Lightweight back and side sleepers should enjoy how cushiony this bed feels while benefiting from its supportive springs.
Helix Sunset Pros
If you’re a lighter person with arthritis or any kind of joint pain, this bed should cozily swaddle your sore spots
Our testing team gave the bed a high cooling score, and you can even add to its temperature regulation with an optional GlacioTex™ cover
It balances its soft surface with enough support for lightweight and average-weight sleepers who prefer to snooze on their side or back
Helix Sunset Cons
With average scores in motion isolation and edge support, it’s not the best bed for couples
Plus-size people and stomach sleepers won’t get the right amount of support from this mattress, and should look into firmer beds
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping within the contiguous United States
Trial Period
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
Return
Returns
Free returns

The Advisor Says: The Sunset is the softest mattress in Helix’s core collection, so it’s no surprise that it feels just lovely around the body’s sharper joints (namely the hips and shoulders). On our firmness scale, it doesn’t drop into true soft territory—it’s still on the pillowy end of medium-firm at a 5.5 out of 10—but that’s probably a good thing for preventing uneven sinkage. We wouldn’t recommend this bed to heavyweight folks or stomach sleepers, though.

The Helix Sunset mattress has soft top layers to give sleepers the comfort and pressure relief they seek.

The bed uses layers of memory foam to cushion the body and relieve pressure. The coil unit features individually-wrapped coils that move separately, which means there’s little motion transfer even though the bed is soft. The perimeter is reinforced to provide edge support for people who like to spread across the bed.

Because the Helix Sunset is rated 5.5/10, back and stomach sleepers may find it too soft to support the lower back in these sleeping positions.

Why should you consider it?

  • The Helix Sunset mattress is a hybrid, combining memory foam and coils to deliver comfort and support for people who want a plush yet strong mattress.

Customer Reviews of the Helix Sunset

The Helix Sunset has 4.5 out of 5 stars on Helix’s website. Customers appreciate the Helix Sunset mattress for its personalized comfort based on individual sleep preferences, but some have reported a minor initial off-gassing odor.

Want more details? Read our full Helix Sunset review or check out the best mattresses for 2024.

Nectar Premier Hybrid – Best Soft Hybrid Mattress

Best Soft Hybrid Mattress
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Nectar
Nectar Premier Hybrid
Strong Edges
Motion Isolation
Contouring Foams
Hybrid
365 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Black Friday Sale
Up to 50% off mattresses + spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$1,395 – $3,559 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Medium-firm with some nice sink, about a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleeper
Back Sleepers
This bed felt made for back sleeping—its foams contoured well to the curve of our tester’s lower back.
Hot Sleeper
Hot Sleepers
We gave it a high cooling score and noted that it felt pleasantly cool to the touch.
Couples
Couples
It’s got the motion isolation, edge support, and cooling for comfortable co-sleeping.
Nectar Premier Hybrid Pros
This hybrid’s upper foams are great at relieving pressure, giving you some of that classic memory foam sink without sacrificing support
Its motion isolation isn’t at all compromised by the springs—good news for restless sleepers
Sturdy edges mean you can stretch out all the way to the sides
Nectar Premier Hybrid Cons
Even though it’s a hybrid, this bed doesn’t feel very bouncy; combination sleepers may want something springier
There was sinkage under our tester’s hips when she tried this bed on her stomach, so we don’t recommend it for stomach sleepers
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping, except for Alaska and Hawaii ($99)
Trial Period
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Free returns within trial period

The Advisor Says: This hybrid almost seems like it was made for foam fans. It offers amazing pressure relief and motion isolation, all while feeling even plusher than the Nectar’s classic all-foam model. It’s a bit too soft for stomach sleepers and heavyweight folks, but it’s a good choice for restless sleepers and couples who prefer to rest on their side and back.

The Nectar Premier Hybrid embodies a near-perfect marriage of softness and support. Two layers of foam rest atop the coil unit of this mattress to cushion your body while still keeping you aloft.

Despite this surface-level softness, we think the bed’s springs should keep areas like the lower back elevated—so, side and back sleepers alike should find it a comfortable fit. It also isolates motion, so it’s good for light sleepers who share a bed with a restless partner or pet.

Why we picked it

  • The classic Nectar mattress is all-foam, but with the addition of springs, the Nectar Premier Hybrid has really upped the brand’s game. We enjoyed the elevated feeling we had on this bed as well as the plushness of its upper layers.

Customer Reviews of the Nectar Premier Hybrid

The Nectar Premier Hybrid gets a 4.4 out of 5 on Nectar’s official website where you can read more than 1,600 customer reviews. Most people rating it negatively did so because they found the mattress either too soft or too firm. People who liked the Premier Hybrid rated it highly for back pain.

Want more details on this brand? Read our full Nectar Premier Hybrid review or check out our best hybrid mattresses.

DreamCloud PremierBest Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers

Best Soft Mattress for Side Sleepers
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Premier Mattress
Cashmere Blend Cover
Four Upper Foam Layers
Bouncy
Hybrid
365 nights
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Black Friday Sale
Up to 50% off mattresses + spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$1,116 – $3,284 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Medium-firm to slightly firm, around a 6.5 to 7 out of 10 on our scale.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Side Sleeper
Side Sleepers
It’s more cushioned than its predecessor, the original DreamCloud, and a good fit for side sleepers who want lots of support.
Back Sleeper
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers should feel lifted and cozy on this bed.
Spring
Bounce Fans
It’s a springy, responsive mattress even though it has lots of foam near the top.
DreamCloud Premier Pros
It balances softness and support a bit better than the original DreamCloud, with more cushion in its upper layers
Our spinal alignment felt great on our sides and backs
It’s a responsive bed with a fair amount of bounce
DreamCloud Premier Cons
When we tested it on our stomachs, our lower backs dipped lower than we would have liked
There was a touch of pressure buildup around the shoulder while testing on our sides; if that area is sensitive for you, browse the best mattresses for shoulder pain instead
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping in the contiguous United States
Trial Period
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Free returns

The Advisor Says: Its fancy quilted cover and generous foam layers make the DreamCloud Premier a slightly softer bed than the original DreamCloud. But, it still skews firm for a hybrid, so it’s best for back and side sleepers who like an initial bit of cushion followed by lots of lift.

Side sleepers often struggle with pressure building up around their shoulders and hips, but you shouldn’t have that problem with the DreamCloud Premier. The original DreamCloud is a relatively firm hybrid mattress, but the Premier added more foam for a cloud-like top. When discussing how it relieved pressure around her joints, Julia reported that “the memory foam and soft foam at the mattress surface really cradle these key areas.”

What stands out?

  • The DreamCloud Premier’s cashmere cover adds a fancy extra touch to the pillow top.

Customer Reviews of the DreamCloud Premier

Coming in at 4.5 out of 5 stars on DreamCloud’s site, the DreamCloud Premier has over 5,000 reviews, the majority of which are positive. Customers praise the DreamCloud Premier mattress for its luxury feel, but some have noted that it may not be the best choice for those on a tighter budget.

Want more details on this brand? Read our full DreamCloud Premier mattress review or check out the best mattresses for side sleepers for more options.

WinkBed GravityLux – Best Medium-Soft Mattress

Best Medium-Soft Mattress
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
WinkBeds
WinkBeds GravityLux Mattress
Memory Foam
Pressure Relief
Multiple Firmnesses
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale
$300 off any mattress See Details
Material
Material
This mattress is made up of multiple foam layers.
Price
Price
$1,199 – $1,999 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Multiple firmnesses. We rated the Medium GravityLux at a 6 out of 10 firmness, which means it’s medium-firm. There are also Soft and Firm models.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Light
Memory Foam Fans
The GravityLux has that signature “hug” that should appeal to foam fans.
Pain Relief
Pain Relief
Thanks to the bed’s perfect score in pressure relief, those with pain concerns should feel cradled by the bed’s cushiony surface.
Couples
Restless Couples
The GravityLux also earned a perfect motion isolation score, so you shouldn’t feel your partner’s movements.
Pros of the GravityLux
The GravityLux uses zoned foam (firmer near the center) to promote proper spinal alignment when you lay on its surface
We tested the Medium version, but it comes in multiple firmness options (Soft, Medium, and Firm)
The GravityLux is constructed with hypoallergenic materials, including a Eucalyptus-derived TENCEL® cover
Cons of the GravityLux
The GravityLux isn’t super bouncy, so you might want to consider the brand’s hybrid bed, the WinkBed
This bed is made to handle a lot of weight, but it might not be one of the best beds for heavy people
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping, except for Alaska and Hawaii ($99)
Trial Period
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Free returns within trial period

The Advisor Says: We think the GravityLux is a great option if you’re looking for a well-rounded bed with that iconic foam feel. We gave it high marks for pressure relief, motion isolation, support, and cooling!

The WinkBed GravityLux is available in three firmness options, making this bed suitable for all sleeping positions. The bed is 11 inches tall, and the construction starts with an eco-friendly and soft Tencel fabric. Tencel absorbs heat and moisture, wicking them away to cool hot sleepers. The mattress has a 2-inch layer of gel-infused foam quilted to the cover for further temperature regulation.

The first layer under the cover is AirCell™ memory foam designed to relieve pressure. The second layer has Zoned Progression Foam™ made to support the body in sensitive areas. The final layer has Atlas Core Foam™ for durability and structure. This foam supports your weight and all the layers above.

Why we like it

  • The GravityLux provides a deep hugging cradle, contouring the body in all sleeping positions. This comfortable feeling comes from comfort foams and the Zoned Progression Foam™ that targets different body parts.

Customer Reviews of the GravityLux

On the WinkBeds website, the GravityLux scores a 4.8 stars out of 5. Customers appreciate the WinkBed GravityLux mattress for its exceptional support and durability, but some have reported that it may not be as responsive to pressure relief as they expected.

Want more details? Read our full GravityLux mattress review.

Nolah Signature – Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress

Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Nolah
Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress
Pressure Relief
Memory Foam
Cooling Foam
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Black Friday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
Material
Material
This mattress is made up of multiple foam layers.
Price
Price
$1,299 – $2,798 (before discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Medium. More specifically, we gave this bed a 5 out of 10, which is on the medium-to-soft side.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, king, California king, split king
Side Sleeper
Side Sleepers
The Nolah Signature’s blend of pressure relief and support should work well for side sleepers.
Couples
Restless Couples
This bed also excels in motion isolation, meaning you shouldn’t feel your partner’s movements from the other side of the bed.
Hot Sleeper
Hot Sleepers
Hot sleepers should appreciate Nolah’s breathable cotton cover and cooling AirFoam™.
Pros of the Nolah Signature
A perfect pressure relief score means this bed will be great for sleepers with pain concerns
Foam beds usually hold onto heat, but the Nolah Signature uses cooler and more breathable foams
Motion should be relatively stifled on this bed’s cushy surface
Cons of the Nolah Signature
This bed isn’t very bouncy, but the Nolah Evolution earned a perfect score for its bounce
The Nolah Signature is a bit too soft for stomach sleepers
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping (only in contiguous United States)
Trial Period
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)

The Advisor Says: We recommend the Nolah Signature for sleepers looking for a foam bed that has a soft but accommodating firmness. It also runs cooler than most foam beds, and has enough pressure relief to cradle sensitive joints.

The Nolah Signature is a plush mattress that’s best suited for side and back sleepers. The bed has four layers of different foams, a cotton cover, and a four-way knitted border cover for maximum comfort and plushness.

The Signature has 2.5 inches of contouring AirFoam™ foam for targeted pressure relief and body contouring. Next is the high-resilience foam that gives the bed bounce and responsiveness so that you can reposition with ease. An additional layer of AirFoam™ brings pressure relief to the neck, legs, shoulders, and hips. It’s followed by a high-density core foundation and a knitted border cover.

What’s worth noting?

  • The foams used in this mattress have the CertiPUR-US® certification, meaning that they’re free of chemicals, toxins, and heavy metals.

Customer Reviews of the Nolah Signature

The Nolah Signature gets a 4.8 out of 5 stars on Nolah’s website.Customers appreciate the Nolah Signature mattress for its exceptional pressure relief, but some have mentioned that it lacks the edge support they desire.

Want more details? Read our full Nolah Signature review or check out our best memory foam mattress picks.

Saatva Classic – Best Soft Luxury Mattress

Best Soft Luxury Mattress
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.2
Saatva
Saatva Classic
Two Coil Units
Lumbar Support
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
365 nights
Free shipping and white glove delivery
Election Extravaganza Sale
Up to $600 off See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$1,395 – $2,990 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options available (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm). We tested the Luxury Firm and placed it at a 7 out of 10, which is firm but not extremely firm.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king; two height options (11.5″ and 14.5″)
Combo Sleeper
Combination Sleepers
This bed supported us in every single sleeping position, so you’re all set if you switch your posture during the night.
Back Pain
Back Pain
There are multiple features inside this bed that support the lower back specifically.
Setup
Fans of Convenience
White glove delivery is a big plus if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of mattress unboxing and setup.
Saatva Classic Pros
All the built-in lumbar features really kept our lower backs lifted and supported
The edge support on this bed is something else—those foam rails make you feel very secure
You can customize the bed’s firmness level and height
Saatva Classic Cons
There’s very little motion isolation to be had on this bed, so you may feel a partner’s movements; check out the best memory foam beds if a calm surface is important to you
Unlike many other mattress companies we feature, Saatva will charge you a return fee if you send this bed back
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping and white glove delivery in the contiguous United States
Trial Period
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Saatva charges a $99 processing fee for returns

The Advisor Says: The Saatva Classic is the gold standard for lower-back support, strong edges, and customizable luxury. It’s not the softest or most motion-isolating bed out there, but it’s a dependable, bouncy hybrid that consistently impresses our testers with its two coil units.

The Saatva Classic is available in three firmness options, one of which is soft while the other two are firmer. The soft Saatva is best for side sleepers, while stomach and back sleepers may prefer the two firmer models.

This hybrid mattress has a pillowtop, followed by a layer of memory foam that supports the lower back in all sleeping positions. The Saatva Classic is a unique hybrid with two coil units designed to support the body and prevent the mattress from sagging. The first coil unit has individually wrapped coils for motion isolation, while the second coil unit provides the bulk of the bed’s support. All of these layers work together to provide spinal alignment regardless of your preferred sleeping position.

What stands out about this product?

  • The Saatva Classic is a luxury mattress with a reinforced perimeter for maximum edge support. The bed has thick foam surrounding the perimeter, preventing it from sagging if you sit or sleep near the edge.

Customer Reviews of the Saatva Classic

The Saatva Classic rates 4.8 stars out of 5 on Saatva’s website. One negative aspect customers found with the Saatva Classic mattress is that it may feel too firm for some users, while a notable advantage is its high-quality materials, providing durability and support.

Want more details? Read our full Saatva Classic review. Or, if you’re interested in especially luxurious beds, check out our hotel mattress picks.

Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Soft Mattress for Back Pain

Best Soft Mattress for Back Pain
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Phase Change Material
Zoned Support
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Black Friday Sale
Use code BLACK35 for 35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$1,893 – $3,920 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options (Soft, Medium, or Firm). We tested the Medium version and placed it at a 6 out of 10 on our scale, which means it’s medium-firm with some cushion.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleeper
Back Sleepers
The lumbar support on this bed felt fantastic under our lower backs.
Spring
Bounce Fans
This is an extraordinarily responsive bed with a 5 out of 5 testing score in the bounce category.
Couples
Couples
Strong edge support, above-average cooling, and decent motion isolation make it a good pick for couples.
Bear Elite Hybrid Pros
You’ll have three firmness options to choose from
We got some real air while jumping on this bed, and never felt restricted by or stuck in its upper foam layers when moving around
The zoned coils gave our lower backs noticeable support and kept our spines aligned
Bear Elite Hybrid Cons
There was some pressure buildup around the shoulders while resting on our sides; the best mattresses for pressure relief list will have better recommendations for people with shoulder pain.
The motion isolation is pretty good for a hybrid, but it’s still not amazing
Shipping
Shipping
Free inside the contiguous United States
Trial Period
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Return
Returns
Free returns

The Advisor Says: This is a memorably bouncy and supportive hybrid with state-of-the-art cooling elements. It had a delightful balance of cushion and lift for back and stomach sleeping in particular.

During testing, we found the Bear Elite Hybrid to be a solid option for lower back pain in particular. For those who prefer a plush mattress, we recommend the Soft model, which still includes built-in lumbar support from the zoned coils. (However, the Firm option might be better for back or stomach sleepers.)

Another literally cool thing about the Bear Elite Hybrid is the cool-to-the-touch hand-quilted cover with Celliant® fibers, which allegedly help with muscle recovery.

Why we like it:

  • This sturdy hybrid mattress has a reinforced perimeter, which means you can sit and sleep near the edge without feeling like you could roll off.
  • The company offers an industry-leading lifetime warranty and gives you 120 nights to test how the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress fits your needs.

Customer Reviews of the Bear Elite Hybrid

According to Bear’s website, the Bear Elite scores about 4.5 out of 5 stars. Some customers find the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress too firm for their liking, but it receives praise in its reviews for its advanced cooling technology and pressure relief.

Curious about this bed? Learn more in our Bear Elite Hybrid review or check out the best mattresses for back pain.

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Best Soft Mattress for Combination Sleepers

Best Soft Mattress for Combination Sleepers
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Plush Hybrid
Cooling and Springy
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Black Friday Sale
Use code BFRIDAY30 for 30% off sitewide See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$665 – $1,599 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options (Soft, Medium, and Firm). We tested the Medium and found it skewed soft, around a 5 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short full, queen, short queen, Olympic queen, king, short king, California king, split California king, RV king
Back Sleeper
Back Sleepers
This bed felt wonderful to our testers when they rested on their backs, with a nice mix of support and pressure relief.
Side Sleeper
Side Sleepers
The foams on top are plush enough to cradle hips and shoulders.
Hot Sleeper
Hot Sleepers
This bed handily passed our cooling tests with a score of 4.5 out of 5.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Pros
We felt very lifted and yet cushioned by this hybrid, awarding it perfect scores in both support and pressure relief
It’s a very bouncy bed that should encourage rather than hinder movement
For a hybrid of its caliber, this bed is priced extremely affordably
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Cons
It’s too soft for stomach sleepers, who will need more support beneath their hips; read up on the best mattresses for stomach sleepers to see other options
The Medium model felt very plush; if you’re looking for a firmer hybrid that’s also pretty customizable, check out the Saatva Classic
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping inside the contiguous United States
Trial Period
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
Return
Returns
Free returns

The Advisor Says: For shoppers on a budget, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is one of the top hybrids we recommend. It’s simultaneously soft and bouncy, with three firmness options and decent cooling power.

The Signature Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding comes in three firmness options, so it should be good for combination sleepers who lie in all sleeping positions. The bed should also work for couples and single individuals thanks to the edge support and bounce.

The construction of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid starts with the TitanFlex™ foam. TitanFlex™ is a latex alternative, contouring the body and responding to movements. This layer is 1.5 inches thick in soft and medium models and 1-inch thick in the firm version. Next is the VariFlex™ transition foam that acts as a comfort layer before the coil unit. The soft and medium mattresses have an inch of VariFlex™ foam, while the firm version has two inches. The third layer features 8-inch Ascension® coils with high-caliber perimeter coils for edge support.

What else should you know?

  • The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has a quarter-inch base made of high-density foam to reinforce the coils for added durability.

Customer Reviews of the Signature Hybrid

On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, the Brooklyn Signature has 4.7 out of 5 stars. The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress receives praise from customers for its versatility with different firmness options, but some have mentioned that it may produce slight noise when bearing weight.

Want more details? Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid review or check out our best mattress for combination sleeper picks.

Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Soft Mattress for Couples

Best Soft Mattress for Couples
Sleep Advisor Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Leesa
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Euro Top
Isolates Motion
Multiple Firmnesses
Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping to all 50 states
Black Friday Sale – Early Access
25% off select mattresses + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
Material
Material
This mattress contains foam layers and coils.
Price
Price
$1,499 – $2,399 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness levels available (Plush, Medium-Firm, and Firm). We tested the Medium-Firm model and placed it at a 6 out of 10 on our scale, which is indeed a pleasant medium-firm.
Size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Couples
Couples
With high marks in both motion isolation and bounce, this hybrid strikes a rare sweet spot for couples.
Side Sleeper
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers should enjoy the softness of the Euro top around their hips and shoulders.
Back Sleeper
Back Sleepers
Our tester actually thought this bed firmed up a little when she switched to her back, giving her the support that this position needs.
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Pros
With its Euro top and seven total layers, this bed emulates a fancy hotel mattress quite well
It balances its responsiveness and motion isolation so that you get impressive amounts of both
Multiple firmness options make it simple to choose the right feel for your body type and sleeping position
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Cons
We weren’t blown away by the bed’s cooling capabilities, even though it has “Chill” in its name; peruse the best cooling mattresses for some better options
Given how much our tester’s hips dipped into the bed, it’s not a superior mattress for stomach sleepers (though the Firm model may be better suited to this position)
Shipping
Shipping
Free shipping to all 50 states
Trial Period
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
Return
Returns
Free returns within the contiguous United States; $100 fee for returns from AK and HI

The Advisor Says: The Leesa Sapira Chill is a sophisticated hybrid bed that looks and feels classy. We were especially taken with how well it adapted to back and side sleeping. On her back, our tester felt like the Medium model was stable and supportive; on her side, it seemed to soften up to better cushion her shoulders and hips. One caveat, though, is that it’s not as much of a cooling superstar as its name would suggest.

The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid is available in three firmness levels, with Plush being the softest. Some people, including our testers, thought that the Medium-Firm version actually leaned soft as well.

This hybrid is well-suited for couples due to its motion-isolating capabilities and its versatile feel. Julia felt comfortable switching between all positions while trying it out, and recommended it for combination sleepers or partners with different preferences. The only demographic that might have some trouble is exclusive stomach sleepers—they’ll probably want more lift for their hips.

What sets this mattress apart?

  • No less than four foam layers separate you from the coils in this bed, so you get lots of padding to relax on. The coils themselves have a lumbar zone with stronger support beneath the low back.

Customer Reviews of the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid

The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid rates 4.8 stars out of 5 based on around 30 reviews on Leesa’s website. Customers value the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid for its excellent temperature regulation and comfort, but some mention it’s softer than they anticipated.

Looking to learn more? Read our full Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid mattress review or browse the best mattresses for couples.

What is a Soft Mattress?

A soft mattress is a bed that has a plush, cushiony feel when you lie down on it. High-quality plush mattresses will have great pressure-relieving properties combined with enough support to promote healthy spinal alignment. Without that support, sleepers may sink too deeply into the bed and even develop back pain.

Keep in mind that mattress firmness is subjective, and different body types will have different experiences of a bed’s feel. For the majority of sleepers, a mattress with a rating of 5 or below on our firmness scale will feel especially soft. We don’t recommend beds with a rating of 4 or below, as they likely won’t be supportive enough for long-term use.

What to Look for in a Soft Mattress 

Sinking into a plush mattress at the end of a long day can feel like a luxurious dream come true. However, when deciding on a soft bed, you will want to make sure it can also keep your spine well-aligned. 

To make sure that you’re getting the best plush mattress for you, you will need to consider the type of mattress that you like, along with your preferred sleep position and body type. Once those factors have been determined, it is advisable to consider factors such as cooling, responsiveness, and motion isolation, among others. We will break down these characteristics so that you will know exactly what to look for in a soft mattress. 

Type of Mattress 

Innerspring

Innerspring beds aren’t known for their softness. These beds are highly supportive, bouncy, and breathable, but the thin comfort layer won’t do wonders if you’re looking for something plush. You may be able to find some softer versions, but in general, we wouldn’t recommend a traditional innerspring for those who want a soft bed.

Hybrid

A hybrid is a mattress that’s built with an innerspring unit and multiple foam layers. They usually provide better cushioning and pressure relief than their traditional innerspring counterparts. Some brands sell softer hybrids made with memory foam on top that could work well for sleepers seeking a plush bed. Hybrid mattresses also have the added benefit of extra support and breathability from the coils.

Memory Foam

Memory foam is often found in softer beds because of its ability to relieve pressure well. With a memory foam mattress, you will experience a more slow-moving feel as you notice the foam conforming to your shape.

Latex

Latex can relieve pressure well, but it can also feel firmer than memory foam. Furthermore, the material’s responsive nature is not always well-received by those looking for a truly soft sensation. Some manufacturers will use Talalay latex, a softer type of latex, in the comfort layers, which could help provide more plushness.

Read Our Full Guide: Best Latex Bed

Other Considerations When Shopping for a Soft Mattress

Sleeping Position 

Our testers test each sleeping position to make sure each mattress fits the right sleeper

Softer mattresses are great for side sleepers because they often provide the most pressure relief, which is important in this position.

When you lie on your side, your weight is concentrated in small, precise zones (namely the shoulders and hips). As a result, you may notice pressure building up in these areas. A softer mattress can help alleviate that pressure by cradling your curves more than a firmer bed would.

Check Out Our Full Guide: Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

However, we don’t recommend soft beds for stomach sleepers, and medium-firm or firm beds are generally the best mattress options for back sleepers. This is because these sleep positions require firmer support compared to side sleeping.

Weight/Body Type of Sleepers 

Lightweight sleepers (under 130 pounds or so) can also benefit from a softer bed. We mentioned earlier that firmness is subjective, and perception of a mattress’s feel can vary depending on your body weight. Lightweight sleepers tend to be especially sensitive to firmer beds, whereas larger people will be more comfortable on them.

Therefore, a softer mattress can help ensure that a petite person feels cozy and cushioned while still keeping their body well-aligned.

Heavyweight sleepers should avoid soft beds because they would sink too far into the mattress, negatively impacting their spine alignment. 

Firmness

The firmness of the bed is probably the most direct measure of how soft it is. Though firmness is subjective, most beds that we consider to be plush will have a rating under 5 on our firmness scale of 1-10. In order to avoid getting a bed that’s too soft, we recommend not getting anything below a 4 rating. For reference, we do not rate beds lower than this on our site because they will provide little to no support for the back.

Exploring the layers of the DreamCloud Premier mattress

Cooling 

Softer mattresses are usually made out of memory foam (but not always), and this is a material that can bring the most substantial heat retention if it is not a modern design.

If heat is a problem for you, consider the construction of your soft mattress and make sure that there are cooling measures in place. This will help dissipate the heat and bring more coolness to your bed, in the hopes that you rest soundly.

With this in mind, there are certain materials that bring additional cooling and breathability to the bed. Latex, coils, and gel are among them. They may slightly raise the price, but if you can save yourself from waking up hot during the night, it’s worth it.

Learn More: Our Top-Rated Cooling Beds Reviewed

Motion Isolation 

Couples often enjoy softer beds because many of them are built with memory foam, which is not only excellent for pressure relief, but it’s also great at absorbing motion. This is important for couples, particularly those with different sleep schedules or mismatched sensitivity to movement.

Check out our mattress picks for couples here.

motion isolation on nectar premier hybrid
The Nectar Premier Hybrid earned a 4 out of 5 for motion isolation during our testing.

Sex

A soft bed may not be extremely conducive to sexual activity. This is because most people tend to sink further down in soft beds, which may make it difficult to move and reposition. 

However, sexually active couples who want some plushness can consider a softer latex or latex hybrid bed. Latex can help relieve pressure, but it’s also more responsive, which can allow you to move more easily during intimate moments. Look for beds made with Talalay latex as this is generally softer than Dunlop latex.

Pressure Relief 

Pressure relief is a bed’s ability to prevent pressure from building up around the areas of the body that come in contact with the bed throughout the night. For many people, soft beds provide excellent pressure relief, though an overly soft bed can affect spine alignment. Therefore, ensure the mattress will also provide adequate support for your hips and spine. 

Edge Support

Loren testing edge support
Testing a mattress for edge support.

Edge support is one thing that a lot of people disregard because it isn’t always of huge importance to every individual or couple. However, it can be important if you are part of a couple that needs more space. As a general rule of thumb, softer beds tend to be more challenged with edge support, though not always.

If you sleep with someone else, you may find yourself using the edges a lot more often than not. This is an example of when you’d truly appreciate proper support in this area. Good edge support allows for more usage of the entire surface, which can help you rest comfortably.

Budget 

How soft a bed feels shouldn’t significantly impact the price. Mattress price is typically impacted by factors like material quality, durability, special cooling features, and the types of materials used. The good news here is that many soft beds are memory foam mattresses, which are usually cheaper than hybrid or latex options. Additionally, shopping online can help save you money by cutting out added costs from in-store retailers.

If you’re looking for a budget mattress, check out these cheap mattress options.

Best Soft Mattress FAQs 

Who are soft mattresses good for?

Soft mattresses are good for those who need extra pressure relief, such as side sleepers and lightweight people. Plush mattresses tend to include softer, body-conforming layers that help alleviate pressure by cradling the sleeper’s body. These types of beds are great if you notice discomfort in areas like the shoulders and hips from your current mattress.

Is sleeping on a soft mattress good?

Soft mattresses can be good for many people, especially those who weigh less than average or sleep on their side. However, if you choose to sleep on a soft mattress, it is important that it gives you enough support. The main issue with soft mattresses is that they could let sleepers sink too far into the bed, compromising spine alignment. 

Which type of mattress is the softest?

Foam mattresses are generally the softest ones, particularly those made with memory foam. Additionally, many mattress companies now offer multiple firmness levels in some of their popular mattresses, including softer versions.

Do soft mattresses sleep hot?

No, not all soft mattresses sleep hot. Many softer mattresses contain memory foam, a material that’s known to retain heat. However, innovative advancements from manufacturers have helped with this. Many brands will infuse their memory foam mattress with cooling gels or use an open-cell structure to promote temperature regulation. 

Additionally, cooler fabrics in the cover such as Tencel or cotton can help keep things cool.

Can a soft mattress cause back pain?

Yes, a softer mattress that lacks the necessary support and sinks too much could cause back pain. 

However, this depends on the sleep position you prefer and your body type. For example, if you like sleeping on your back or stomach, you may want to limit sinkage more than a side sleeper to prevent misalignment. Additionally, the heavier you are, the more likely you are to sink deeper into the layers, which is why a firmer mattress would be better in this case.

Can a plush topper be a good option?

Yes, a soft topper can be a great choice, but it’s also important to account for the capabilities of your own bed. A plush mattress with a softer topper might not make much sense. Soft mattress toppers are usually great for firmer beds to help compensate for the comfort while not putting the support in jeopardy.

How can I make a firm mattress softer?

You can make a firm softer by placing a soft mattress topper above your mattress. As mentioned, soft toppers can help provide added plushness and pressure relief for a bed that feels too firm. You can also try adding pillows to soften up the space, either underneath you or to cuddle with.

Conclusion

There are multiple things that you should take into account when it comes to choosing the best soft mattress. You need to make sure that you find a balance between comfort and support so that you can rest easy and not develop any back pain issues.

The soft beds we’ve reviewed help convey comfort without putting your back in jeopardy. Make sure to take a look at all our mattress reviews for more choices and budget and firmness filters.

MattressBest ForPrice (Queen Size)Review
Helix SunsetEditor’s Pick$1,199Helix Sunset Mattress Review
Nectar Premier HybridHybrid$1,799Nectar Premier Hybrid Mattress Review
DreamCloud PremierSide Sleepers$1,832DreamCloud Premier Mattress Review
GravityLuxMedium-Soft$1,799GravityLux Mattress Review
Nolah SignatureMemory Foam$1,599Nolah Signature Mattress Review
Saatva ClassicLuxury$1,995Saatva Classic Mattress Review
Bear Elite HybridBack Pain$2,305Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Review
Brooklyn Bedding Signature HybridCombination Sleepers$1,249Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Review
Leesa Sapira Chill HybridCouples$2,159Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress Review
Loren Bullock

Loren Bullock

Lead Product Tester

About Author

Loren is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor. She has prioritized sleeping for as long as she can remember, rarely deviating from seven to nine hours each night.

Combination Sleeper

Education & Credentials

  • Certified Sleep Science Coach

Resources:

  1. 3 Signs Your Mattress Is Too Soft – health.com