Written by Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
A great mattress will help with more than your sleep—it should also be a desirable spot for, well, desire. But some beds can make you feel bogged down when you’re trying to heat things up. If your mattress is too soft, too hard, or prone to lots of sinkage, it’s apt to ruin the mood.
The best beds for sex are highly responsive. They allow for easy movement, bounce, and repositioning during intimacy, while also providing enough coziness and support for your nightly rest. With an eye toward these criteria, my team and I have tested and selected several mattresses that should facilitate (and maybe even spice up) sexual activity.
Best Mattresses for Sex
- Helix Midnight Luxe – Editor’s Pick
- Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Back Pain and Sex
- WinkBeds – Best Luxury Mattress for Sex
- Nolah Evolution – Best Cooling Mattress for Sex
- Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Sex
- Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite – Best Mattress for Sex and Side Sleepers
- Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Mattress for Heavy People and Sex
- Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Sex
- Birch Natural – Best Latex Mattress for Sex
Watch My Video Guide on the Best Mattresses for Sex
Compare the Best Mattresses for Sex
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| Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress | Saatva Mattress | WinkBed Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress | Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | Birch Natural Mattress | |
| Rating | |||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Medium: 5.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | |||||
| Warranty | 15-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime Warranty | 10-year warranty | 10-year warranty | 10-year warranty | 25-year warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 100 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 100 nights | 120 nights | 100 nights |
| Best For | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Couples | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hip Pain | Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Seniors | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors |
How We Test the Best Beds for Sex
At Sleep Advisor, we test mattresses in person at a dedicated studio.
Our specialized tests measure factors such as support, pressure relief, bounce, and cooling. Each bed receives a score in each performance category, as well as an overall weighted score.
We’ve put more than 150 beds through this meticulous product review process and helped more than 2,500 visitors find their next mattress.
In choosing the best mattresses for sex, we paid special attention to the criteria that affect intimacy: responsiveness, support, noise level, and edge support. We also considered metrics that make a bed suitable for couples, such as motion isolation and weight capacity.
What Makes a Mattress Good for Sex?
Bouncy and responsive surface
A responsive bed will make it easier to move and reposition on its surface. It can add lively springiness, help you and your partner establish a good rhythm, and prevent awkward stops and starts. Simply put, a bouncy mattress will work with you, not against you, during sex.
On the other hand, mattresses with less-than-stellar responsiveness may make movement feel more difficult. If you’re sinking too far down into soft layers, or the top of the bed is super flat and firm, maneuvering during sex can be difficult—or even uncomfortable.
Less noise
Many people prefer their sexual encounters to be discreet. Memory foam and latex mattresses are generally quiet, but those with coils, such as innerspring and hybrid mattresses, can get squeaky and attract attention.
Sturdy support
A supportive bed will make you feel elevated and secure during sexual activity. Support is also essential for a healthy spine alignment during sleep, and is a baseline requirement for any high-quality mattress.
Strong edges
Consistent edge support allows you to utilize the entire surface of your bed. During sex or sleep, you won’t have to worry about the sides buckling enough for you to slip off.
Best Mattresses For Sex, Reviewed
Helix Midnight Luxe – Editor’s Pick
The Advisor Says: An upgraded version of the Helix Midnight, this bed added zoned support for more lift beneath the lower back as well as a plush pillow top. It should appeal to people (and back sleepers in particular) who want just a bit of comfy sink from the top layer of their hybrid mattress.
| Metrics | Helix Midnight Luxe | Average |
| Overall Score | 4 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 14.5″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 6 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 100 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Free Shipping | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® and GREENGUARD Gold | – |
| Price (Queen) | $2,373 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Helix Midnight Luxe Earned Editor’s Pick
The Helix Midnight Luxe is the luxury rendition of the brand’s Helix mattress, a medium-firm hybrid mattress. This upgraded bed features a plush pillow top plus zoned support coils for a balanced, springy feel that should benefit sexually active folks.
Its middle-of-the-road firmness should work well for sleepers seeking respite from aches and pains. It also balances its springiness with some impressive other stats from our testing studio: a perfect score in cooling, great edge support, and more motion isolation than you’d expect from such a bouncy hybrid.
What’s the Midnight Luxe Mattress Made Of?
The Helix Midnight Luxe is 13.5 inches tall with six total layers. All foams used in its construction are CertiPUR-US® certified.
Look at the Mattress Construction
The bed starts out with a cooling pillow top; this layer is made of quilted foam and swaddled in a breathable Tencel™ Lyocell cover. For an added fee, you can upgrade to the super-cool GlacioTex™ cover.
The first layer underneath the pillow top is a medium-feel responsive foam that bounces back quickly as it comfortably cradles your body. Next, a copper-gel-infused memory foam cushions while keeping naturally cool and preventing bacterial buildup. The final memory foam layer before the coils helps transition into it and has a denser construction to bolster support of the comfort layers above it.
Individually wrapped coils make up the innerspring unit and are zoned across the middle of the mattress for enhanced lumbar support, leading to proper alignment of your spine. The edges of the mattress are also reinforced to keep them from sagging. Finally, everything sits on top of a dense foam base.
Our Take: My fellow tester Loren Bullock gave it an “A” for pain relief: “The zoned support layer does a good job at pressure and weight distribution, so it’s a good option for folks with aches and pains.”
Customer Reviews of the Helix Midnight Luxe
On Helix’s website, the mattress has over 6,000 reviews, scoring 4.5 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the Helix Midnight Luxe mattress for its customized support but have reported that it may not be the best option for those who prefer an exceptionally soft sleep surface.
Want more details? Read our full Helix Midnight Luxe review or check out our picks for the best mattresses of 2024 overall.
Saatva Classic – Best Mattress for Sex and Back Pain
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.
| Metrics | Saatva Classic | Average |
| Overall Score | 4 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 11.5″ or 14.5″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 4 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Luxury Firm, Firm, and Plush Soft | – |
| Sleep Trial | 365 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Free shipping within the continental United States. | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® and GOTS-certified | – |
| Price (Queen) | $2,095 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Saatva Classic Earned Best Mattress for Sex and Back Pain
Feel the need for more bounce? Saatva’s flagship bed has two separate coil systems that enable quick repositioning without compromising comfort or pressure relief. The first system uses micro-coils to mold to your shape, while the second has interconnected coils designed to improve durability and minimize sagging.
All those springs make for a superior amount of rebound, which is useful during intimacy. But the Saatva can soothe a sore back, too—it has a bevy of features designed to lift up your lumbar spine and provide support where you need it most.
What’s the Saatva Classic Made Of?
Depending on your preference, you can order the Saatva Classic in either an 11.5- or 14.5-inch profile. You also have your choice of firmness levels: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, or Firm.
Check out the Mattress Construction
Every Saatva Classic begins with a 3-inch Euro pillow top dressed in an organic cotton cover. This initial layer is soft and cushiony, but it also feels slightly more supportive under your lumbar spine due to specialized quilting.
Next up, is a strip of memory foam (what Saatva calls a “crown” rather than a full layer) underneath that same lumbar region. It’s just on top of the pocketed “comfort coils” that make up the bed’s first spring unit. The springs themselves are firmer in the lumbar zone, too.
As if that wasn’t enough lumbar support, there’s a Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire between the innerspring units that frames this crucial middle-third region of the bed. It’s followed by the second array of coils, which are interconnected rather than individually wrapped.
Around the entire perimeter of the bed, a border of high-density foam solids up the edges.
My Take: The Saatva is a great choice for couples who like to spread out. This mattress’s superior edge support allows couples to sleep securely along the bed’s perimeter.
Customer Reviews of the Saatva Classic
With over 3,000 customer reviews, the Saatva Classic rates 4.8 stars out of 5 on Saatva’s website. One common complaint customers have is that the Saatva may be too firm for some users, while others praise its high-quality and durable materials.
Looking for more info? Read our in-depth review for Saatva or check out our best mattresses for back pain for more options.
WinkBeds – Best Luxury Mattress for Sex
The Advisor Says: Our testers often compare the WinkBed to a luxury hotel mattress, which is no surprise given its handcrafted touches and elegant hybrid design. It’s also one of the most customizable beds out there, with a firmness level for every body type.
| Metrics | WinkBed Mattress | Average |
| Overall Score | 4.3 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 13.5″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 3 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm, and Plus | – |
| Sleep Trial | 120 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free within the contiguous United States. | – |
| Certifications | OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 and CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,799 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the WinkBed Earned Best Luxury Mattress for Sex
The WinkBed comes in four firmness options—Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm, and Plus—to accommodate different body types and comfort preferences. No matter which you choose, though, this bed should perform very well as a springy-yet-durable surface for sex. “WinkBed should be a good option for couples, thanks to its sturdy construction and reinforced edge coils,” said my fellow tester, Sean.
As for the “luxury” component, the WinkBed combines its overall sturdy design with specialized support features and handmade touches. For example, It has a LumbarLayer™ of reinforced foam in the middle of its design, and its coils are zoned to better address the support needs of different parts of the back.
What’s the WinkBed Mattress Made Of?
The WinkBed is 13.5 inches thick. It begins with a Tencel© cover whose fabric has been eco-consciously manufactured using Eucalyptus wood pulp, rendering it breathable and soft.
Dig Into the Mattress Construction
The cover protects the Euro pillow top, which is quilted with a plush, gel-infused foam. WinkBeds claims that this foam shouldn’t retain as much heat as its memory foam predecessors. Underneath, you’ll find a couple more foam layers geared toward support, including the brand’s LumbarLayer™, which targets the lower back.
The WinkBed’s coil unit is split into specialized zones that provide pushback where you need support, and cushioning where you need give. They’re reinforced along the edges to prevent you from feeling unstable when you roll to the border of the bed.
Each WinkBed is handmade in an American factory by a team of skilled workers. The brand also puts its designs through compression tests that simulate years of use, allowing it to confidently advertise the bed’s impressive durability.
Our Take: The luxurious WinkBed is a great choice for couples because they can choose between different firmness levels. Mark Mattei, a Sleep Advisor product tester, said that most people are really going to enjoy the WinkBed’s versatility.
Customer Reviews of the Winkbed
On the WinkBeds site, the WinkBed has over 8,500 reviews and a score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. One drawback of the WinkBed mattress is that some reviewers found it too firm.
Want more details? Read our full Winkbed review or check out our best luxury mattresses for more options.
Nolah Evolution – Best Cooling Mattress for Sex
The Advisor Says: The Nolah Evolution is a team favorite with a highly competitive score spread—our testers gave it at least a 4 out of 5 in every single performance category. It’s definitely a luxury mattress, with the height (and price) to match.
| Metrics | Nolah Evolution Mattress | Average |
| Overall Score | 4.7 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 15″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 8 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 120 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Free shipping is available within the contiguous United States. | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $2,498 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Nolah Evolution Earned Best Cooling Mattress for Sex
The Nolah Evolution is a beast of a bed, with seven layers between its top and bottom covers. But even though it’s tall and relatively soft, it should be one of the best beds for sex you can find, due to its responsiveness and proprietary materials.
The most notable of these is the AirFoamICE™, which comprises its second foam layer. Nolah claims that this foam is temperature neutral, and much better at cooling than traditional memory foams. The Evolution also has a cooling Euro topper surrounded by a vented gusset, which should efficiently release unwanted heat.
What’s the Nolah Evolution Made Of?
The Nolah Evolution is 15 impressive inches high, with seven total layers. It’s available in three firmness levels: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm.
Dig Into The Layers
Its top cover combines soft organic cotton with ArcticTex™ cooling fibers, and the quilted 2-inch Euro topper beneath has high thermal conductivity. That means it can attract excess heat away from your body—then vent it out of the bed’s AirBreath™ Heat Escape Gusset.
Next up is 2 inches of Nolah’s AirFoamICE™, a cooling foam that also knocks pressure relief out of the park. The graphite inside it helps with temperature regulation, while the air bubbles distributed throughout its structure help it to conform to your body’s topography.
Two more foam layers—a 2-inch sheet of high-resilience foam and a 1-inch sheet of high-density transition foam—follow the AirFoamICE™. They lead into the Evolution’s 8-inch innerspring unit, which is zoned to provide the right amount of support to different areas of the body.
The springs around the edges are also reinforced for extra strength on the sides.
At the very bottom of the bed, there’s a sturdy base of recycled plant fiber.
Our Take: “I found that this mattress is pretty responsive.” – Stuart Petty, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester. This responsiveness should be great for sexually active partners who want to easily reposition during intimacy.
Customer Reviews of the Nolah Evolution
Earning 4.9 out of 5 stars from roughly 900 reviews on Nolah’s website, the Nolah Evolution seems to be a hit. Customers appreciate the Nolah Evolution mattress for its superior pressure relief, but some have mentioned that the edge support could be improved for a more consistent sleep surface.
Want more details? Read our full Nolah Evolution review or check out our general roundup of the best cooling mattresses.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Sex
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.
| Metrics | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Average |
| Overall Score | 4.2 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 14″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 4 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Soft, Medium, and Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 120 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Free shipping is available within the contiguous United States. | – |
| Certifications | GREENGUARD Gold and CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $2,305 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Why the Bear Elite Hybrid Earned Best Hybrid Mattress for Sex
During intimacy, you’ll want a mattress that enhances the experience, rather than one that disrupts it with sinking foams and too much heat. Thankfully, the Bear Elite Hybrid brings both bounce and cooling capabilities to the bedroom. Its hybrid construction combines comfy foams with pocketed coils, and its cover takes advantage of high-tech textiles to keep sleepers from overheating.
“It’s got a familiar mattress feeling with plushness in the cover and foam layers, but quick response and support from the springs,” said Stuart, one of our testers. “And I’m pretty sure that it would do a good job of keeping anyone cool throughout the night.”
What’s the Bear Elite Hybrid Made Of?
The Bear Elite Hybrid has four layers underneath its cover and stands 14 inches high. You can order it in a Firm, Medium, or Soft feel.
Look Closer at the Mattress Layers
Its top cover features two separate technologies designed to help you achieve better sleep: Celliant® and Phase Change Material (PCM). Celliant® is a performance textile that aims to boost your body’s ability to recharge and recover after exercise. PCM, meanwhile, absorbs excess heat as the molecules inside of it shift their states from solid and liquid.
Under the cover is a layer of memory foam that’s been infused with copper. This beneficial metal helps with cooling as well as protection from germs and bacteria. After the memory foam, a layer of transition foam blends comfort and a bit more support.
The coil unit inside the Bear Elite Hybrid is zoned into areas with varying levels of resistance. This structure enables the springs to provide the right amount of pushback to different areas of the body, including the lumbar spine. The coils on the edges of the bed are also reinforced.
At the base of the mattress, a layer of high-density foam grounds everything above it.
Our Take: The Bear Elite Hybrid has bounce and softness, a rare combination. “This bed is great for couples, especially those looking for a really luxurious high-end feel.” – Stuart Petty, Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
Customer Reviews of the Bear Elite Hybrid
According to Bear’s website, where the Bear Elite Hybrid has over 3,700 reviews, the mattress scores 4.6 out of 5 stars. Some customers find the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress too firm for their liking, but other reviews praise its advanced cooling technology and pressure relief.
Want more details? Read our full Bear Elite Hybrid review or check our other hybrid options on our best hybrid mattress page.
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite – Best Mattress for Sex and Side Sleepers
The Advisor Says: The plush top gives this bed a soothing amount of sink, but those two coil units are there to keep your spine aligned and provide some real bounce. Our testers thought that people of all body types would feel almost weightless while back- or side-sleeping on this mattress, but didn’t recommend it for stomach sleepers.
| Metrics | Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite | Average |
| Overall Score | 4 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 14″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 4 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 120 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free within the contiguous United States. | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $2.399 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Mattress for Heavy People and Sex
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.
| Metrics | Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | Average |
| Overall Score | 3.9 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 11″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 5 Layers | – |
| Firmness | Medium-Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 100 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free throughout the United States and Canada. | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,999 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Sex
The Advisor Says: We’re constantly calling this mattress one of the firmest in the online market, and if you don’t believe us, try it for yourself! It offers both a classic firm and extra-firm feel in its flippable design, alongside posture-aligning support. Bonus points for good marks in performance for cooling, bounce, and couples.
| Metrics | Plank Firm | Average |
| Overall Score | 4.1 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 10.25″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Foam | – |
| Number of Layers | 4 | – |
| Firmness | Firm / Very Firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 120 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free within the contiguous United States. | – |
| Certifications | CertiPUR-US® | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,332 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Birch Natural – Best Latex Mattress for Sex
The Advisor Says: Dare we say the Birch Natural is the bed that comes to mind when we think latex? As the name implies, this bed combines natural components with quality construction, yielding a supportive, luxurious, and eco-friendly mattress.
| Metrics | Birch Natural | Average |
| Overall Score | 4.2 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 11″ | 11″ |
| Mattress Type | Latex hybrid | – |
| Number of Layers | 6 | – |
| Firmness | Medium-firm | – |
| Sleep Trial | 100 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Shipping | Shipping is free within the contiguous United States. | – |
| Certifications | eco-INSTITUT, GREENGUARD Gold, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) | – |
| Price (Queen) | $1,873.33 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
Side-by-Side Scores for the Best Mattresses for Sex
| Mattress | Price (Queen Size) | Pressure Relief | Support | Motion Transfer | Cooling | Bounce | Edge Support | Couples |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | $2,373 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Saatva Classic | $2,095 | 4 | 5 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
| WinkBed | $1,799 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4.5 | 4 |
| Nolah Evolution | $2,499 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | $2,305 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 |
| Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite | $2,399 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
| Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | $1,999 | 3.5 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
| Plank Firm | $1,332 | 3.5 | 5 | 3.5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
| Birch Natural | $1,873.33 | 3 | 5 | 3.5 | 4.5 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
| Average Score | $1,695 | 4.3 | 4.5 | 3.9 | 3.9 | 4.0 | 3.9 | 3.9 |
What’s the Best Type of Mattress for Sex?
Hybrid and latex mattresses are the best types of mattresses for sex, due to their mixture of bounce and pressure relief. (You’ll notice that almost all of the beds on our list are hybrids.) For many people, these beds represent the perfect compromise between features for sleep and intimacy.
While traditional innerspring mattresses offer superior responsiveness and bounce for easier movement during sex, they also tend to be the noisiest mattress type, which might not be ideal for discretion. They also don’t have much cushion on top of their coils.
Memory foam beds are slow-moving and often provide ample contouring and excellent motion isolation. However, they typically lack great responsiveness or bounce, which may not make them the best choice for sex.
What to Look for in a Mattress for Sex
Certain factors need to be accounted for when choosing the best mattress for sex. That being said, couples sharing a bed also need to keep in mind their sleep needs. From the type of bed to how body type and sleep position also matter, we’ll detail everything you need to know to find the best mattress for sex.
Bounce & Responsiveness
This is the criterion for how quickly the bed bounces back and adjusts to your movements. A slower response time (or a less bouncy mattress) could make you feel as if you are having sex amidst a field of quicksand.
A bouncier model that reacts quickly can accommodate you and your partner more easily while you change positions and move about. This should help to ensure that you are on a stable surface throughout the night.
Edge Support
Edge support is a crucial factor in a mattress that will be shared by a couple. Sturdy edges allow you to utilize the mattress’s entire surface area without worrying about the bed dipping at the borders, whether you’re sleeping or having sex.
Edge support may come in the form of higher-density foam or reinforced coils around the mattress’s perimeter. You can test to see if a bed has superior edge support by sitting or bouncing on the edge of the bed. Note that some beds have edge support along all four sides, whereas others only reinforce the two long edges.
If you are a senior, make sure to check out our expert recommended Best Mattresses for Seniors.
Noise
The noise level that your mattress makes during intimacy is something you may want to consider. Traditional innerspring mattresses, for example, can be great for sex, but they also tend to be more noisy.
If you want to keep the noises better contained but still have a great mattress for sex, you may want to consider a hybrid mattress. Hybrids can be responsive due to the innerspring or pocket coils, but their noise levels can be dampened by the upper levels of foam.
Motion Isolation
Although motion isolation isn’t a big concern when you are engaged in sex, it’s more important when you’re ready to sleep afterward. If your partner tosses and turns while asleep, you will want a mattress that keeps those movements isolated to their side of the bed.
Memory foam mattresses are excellent at isolating motion, but unfortunately, they are not always ideal for having sex. A good solution here would be a memory foam hybrid that gives you memory foam for motion isolation but coils for intimacy.
Cooling / Temperature Regulation
Modern beds have a host of cooling features that can assist with temperature regulation, including foams infused with cooling gels or metals, coil units that promote air circulation, and covers made of breathable fabrics.
If you’re sensitive to warmth during sleep or sex, look for a mattress that combines multiple cooling elements. Avoid all-foam models made of traditional memory foam without any cooling mechanisms, as this material has the most trouble dissipating heat.
Weight Capacity
Most mattresses can hold at least 250 pounds per side or 500 pounds total. This weight capacity can work for many, but if both partners weigh more than 250 pounds, they should look at beds specifically designed for plus-sized sleepers.
A higher weight capacity and advanced support can be particularly important for heavier couples who are sexually active, as their movements and repositioning may put extra stress on the bed.
Firmness
Mattresses that offer the kind of responsiveness and bounce that make them good for sex are typically found in medium or medium-firm models. Soft and plush mattresses may be cozy, but this can make them harder to reposition on.
During intimacy, people typically like to have a more stable base to maneuver, and a plush firm mattress may make you feel stuck and unable to move easily.
Best Bed Frames for Sex
In addition to a bed that enhances your sexual activity, you will want a frame that can handle it. When looking for a bed frame that is good for sex, consider the materials, sturdiness, and noise level that it will make.
- Layla Bed Frame – Layla prides itself on their bed frame being noiseless. It has also been constructed to stay in place. We think that these features make it an excellent choice for sexually active people.
- The Bed by Thuma – If you’re looking for a stylish and sturdy bed frame, we recommend Thuma’s The Bed. The minimalist wooden structure of the frame is visually appealing, and there is virtually no concern about this strong frame attracting attention with squeaks when you are engaged in sex.
- Brooklyn Bedding The Frame – Made with reclaimed railroad tracks, Brooklyn Bedding’s The Frame can withstand well over a ton of weight. This makes it a top pick for heavyweight sexually active couples.
For additional options, explore our picks for the Best Heavy-Duty Bed Frames.
Additional Ways to Enhance Intimacy
Once you’ve selected a mattress that will support your sexual activity, there are additional ways to increase your intimacy in the bedroom. Aliyah Moore, Ph.D., Certified Sex Therapist, provided Sleep Advisor with the following tips:
Intimacy is built on communication – Partners should have honest and open communication about their wants, limits, and hopes as this strengthens trust and creates a more profound emotional bond.
Create a sensual atmosphere – Couples can set a romantic ambiance by dimming the lights or using candles. Soft, relaxing music and aromatherapy with scents such as lavender and sandalwood can relax you, reduce stress, and lead to increased sexual satisfaction.
Explore non-sexual touch – Physical touch such as cuddling, holding hands, or massaging each other’s shoulders can help foster closeness, paving the way for deeper intimacy.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle- Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and enough sleep can improve your overall mood and boost your energy.
Engage in new experiences – Experimenting with different sexual positions and activities or attending a couples’ workshop can enhance your intimacy journey.
Learn More: Best Mattress for Couples
Does Sex Help You Sleep? Dr. Raj Explains
Best Mattresses for Sex FAQs
What mattress firmness is best for sex?
Medium-firm mattresses tend to be best for sex. If a mattress is too soft, it makes repositioning difficult and may cause partners to feel “stuck” in the material.
Medium-firm mattresses are versatile and can support various sleep positions. Therefore, it may be a good idea for sexually active people to invest in a medium-firm bed as they should be comfortable for both partners and easier to move around on.
Of course, if a mattress is too firm, that can also present problems in terms of comfort—you’ll want to find a bed that suits both your sleeping and sex preferences.
What’s the best mattress height for sex?
We typically recommend looking for mattresses that are around a foot (12″) high.
However, the right mattress height for sex will likely depend on how tall you and your partner are. If the bed is too tall or too short, you may have trouble with certain positions or with getting in and out of bed. Sleep trials allow you to test out a mattress over several nights so that you can see if the height is appropriate.
Your bed frame or platform can also affect the overall height of your bed, so take it into consideration when planning to buy a new mattress.
Are latex mattresses good for sex?
Yes, latex mattresses can be excellent for sex. They are responsive and naturally cooling, two features that can enhance sexual activity. Latex mattresses allow you to reposition easily by quickly responding to body weight, and their temperature regulation can help keep you both from becoming uncomfortably sweaty.
Is sex before bed good for sleep?
Yes, sex can definitely be beneficial to your sleep and overall health. Researchers found3 that sexual activity resulting in an orgasm can decrease the amount of time it takes to fall asleep in both men and women. Sex can also boost oxytocin4, “the love hormone”, which promotes a sense of security, and it decreases cortisol, a stress hormone. Additionally, sex can make you feel good because it releases endorphins5.
Our Final Thoughts
These beds are true winners if you’re looking for a bed for sex. Remember: when looking for an appropriate love-making bed, you should also consider that you will be sleeping in it, which is why our picks are also great beds for couples in general.
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen Size) | Review |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | Editor’s Pick | $2,373 | Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress Review |
| Saatva Classic | Back Pain | $1,995 | Saatva Classic Mattress Review |
| WinkBeds | Luxury | $1,799 | Winkbed Mattress Review |
| Nolah Evolution | Cooling | $2,299 | Nolah Evolution Mattress Review |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Hybrid | $2,305 | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite | Side Sleepers | $2,399 | Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Elite Mattress Review |
| Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | Heavy People | $2,159 | Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid Mattress Review |
| Plank Firm | Firm | $1,332 | Plank Firm Mattress Review |
| Birch Natural | Latex | $1,873.33 | Birch Mattress Review |
Julia Forbes
Sleep Advisor Mattress Tester
About Author
Julia is a product tester at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
Stomach Sleeper
Education & Credentials
- Certified Sleep Science Coach
References:
- Caggiari, Gianfilippo., et al. “What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature”. Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. 2021.
- “ACA Endorsements”. American Chiropractic Association. Webpage accessed April 29, 2024.
- Oesterling, Carlotta Florentine., et al., “The influence of sexual activity on sleep: A diary study”. National Library of Medicine. 2023.
- “Oxytocin: The Love Hormone”. Harvard Health Publishing. Last updated June 13, 2023.
- Liu, Hui., et al. “Is Sex Good for Your Health? A National Study on Partnered Sexuality and Cardiovascular Risk Among Older Men and Women. National Library of Medicine. 2016.